In a world where the search for well-being through natural nutrition is becoming increasingly central, cinnamon boasts a very interesting history and emerges as a fundamental spice , capable of combining taste, tradition and health . Cinnamon, known scientifically as Cinnamomum , is much more than a simple spice: it is the result of a millenary process that has crossed cultures, continents and eras. But what makes this spice so special? And above all, where does it come from?
Native to Sri Lanka , India, Bangladesh and Burma, cinnamon is extracted from the Cinnamomum tree. There are mainly two types of cinnamon: Ceylon Cinnamon or Queen Cinnamon , originally from Sri Lanka, and Cassia Cinnamon , more common and widespread in commercial products. Each type has its own unique characteristics, but both share that warm, sweet flavor .
The process of obtaining cinnamon is as fascinating as its history. After harvesting, the outer bark of Cinnamomum trees is removed. It is the inner bark that hides the real treasure: it is delicately scraped and then left to dry. As it dries, it naturally rolls up, forming cinnamon sticks . This process not only preserves the aromatic properties of the spice but enhances its taste, making it ready to enrich an incredible variety of recipes .
All about cinnamon: properties and benefits
Cinnamon, with its unmistakable aroma and its sweet, warm notes, is much more than a simple pastry ingredient. This ancient spice , loved around the world, brings with it a fascinating history and a list of health benefits that make it a real ally in the kitchen. But what exactly are its benefits and what is cinnamon used for ?
This spice is rich in antioxidants , substances that help protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals . Adding cinnamon to recipes will not only enhance the flavor but will also help reduce the risk of chronic and degenerative diseases . One of the most notable benefits is the ability to moderate blood sugar levels , making it a valuable ingredient for people with insulin resistance or diabetes. A pinch of cinnamon in recipes can help regulate the glycemic index of meals.
We must also consider this spice as a powerful anti-inflammatory . Incorporating it into your daily diet can help reduce inflammation and with it the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases. Thanks to its ability to reduce levels of total cholesterol , LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides, while maintaining or increasing HDL (the "good") cholesterol.
Cinnamon contains coumarin , a substance naturally present in some varieties and which influences not only the flavor profile but also some health considerations. Coumarin, when taken in high doses, has been associated with health problems, especially regarding the liver . For this reason, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) through some studies has established an acceptable daily intake limit for coumarin, which is 0.1 mg per kg of body weight.
Cinnamon in the kitchen: sweet and savory recipes
With its warm, spicy aroma , it has the power to transform any dish. This thousand-year-old spice, the protagonist of numerous traditional and modern recipes , ranges from use in fascinating desserts to rich and spicy savory dishes .
Cinnamon can be a real touch of magic in desserts. Not only does it add depth and an unmistakable warmth, but it also manages to balance intense sweet flavors , such as chocolate , creating a taste contrast that enriches the sensory experience. A sprinkling of cinnamon in a dark chocolate cake batter can elevate the dessert to a new level, offering spicy nuances that pair perfectly with the richness of the cocoa.
A classic example of the use of cinnamon in pastry making is apple tart . Adding it to apples not only enhances the flavor of the fruit but introduces a harmony of tastes that recalls autumnal traditions and atmospheres. It is not just an ingredient but a real bridge between memories and olfactory sensations linked to conviviality and family warmth.
Winter drinks take on a dimension of comfort and warmth with the addition of cinnamon. Whether it's a thick and velvety hot chocolate , a coffee enriched with a spicy touch, or an intensely scented chai tea , cinnamon is able to transform every sip into an enveloping experience. The cinnamon stick, left to infuse , gradually releases its aroma.
When you think of cinnamon, your mind immediately goes to sweets, but its application in savory dishes can pleasantly surprise you. Adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to marinades for meats like pork , chicken or lamb can completely transform the dish. This spice brings a subtle sweetness that balances the robustness of the meats, introducing a complexity of flavors reminiscent of the exotic and spicy cuisines of the Middle East and Asia.
