Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice obtains from the inner bark of the tree from the family of Cinnamomum. Cinnamomum verum is sometimes considered “True cinnamon”, but most cinnamon in international trade is derived from related species, known as “cassia”. The Major producers of Cinnamon are Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, Madagascar and the Caribbean.

Description:

The Cinnamon is cultivated by cutting the stems of the cinnamon tree after growing for two years. The cut stems are processed by scraping off the outer bark. After that, it has hammered to loosen the inner bark, which is then pried off in long rolls. These long roll of cinnamon curls into rolls or quills on drying for four to six hours in a well-ventilated and warm environment. Once dry, the bark is cut into 2-4 inch lengths for sale or consumption.

The flavor of cinnamon is due to it is an aromatic essential oil. There are two varieties of cinnamon available – Cassia Cinnamon and Ceylon Cinnamon. The Cassia Cinnamon has stronger flavor while Ceylon cinnamon has mellow and sweet flavor.

Storage:

Cinnamon can be stored in an airtight container away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Then, they will remain their flavor for about one year.

Uses:

The Cinnamon is largely used for adding sweet flavor in dishes throughout the world. They are used generally in baked items  such as puddings, confectionary, cakes, sweet pastries, and bread as well as chocolate dishes, rice, and milk pudding. They are also used in various type of meat, sauces, beverages, pickles, ketchup, and curries. In western cuisine, cinnamon is used as a flavoring agent in poaching syrup for fruit, fruit punch, and mulled wines.

Health Benefits:

There are many Health’s Benefits mentioned below,

• Anti-Oxidants Properties
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties
• Prevent heart problems
• Fight Diabetes
• Improve Brain Function
• Prevent Cancer
• Boost Immune System
• Cure for Oral Disease
• Fight Infection
• Cure Candida
• Fight Allergies
• Protect Liver

Nutritional Value of Cinnamon:

Nutritional Value of Cinnamon contain per 100gms is mentioned below:

Energy                                 247 kcal

Carbohydrates                  80.6 g

Fiber         53.1 g

Fat                                      1.2 g

Protein                               4 g

Vitamins

Vitamin A                          295 IU

Vitamin C                          3.8 mg

Vitamin E                          2.3 mg

Vitamin K                          31.2 mcg

Thiamin                             0.0 mg

Riboflavin                          0.0 mg

Niacin                                 1.3 mg

Vitamin B6                        0.2 mg

Folate                                  6 mcg

Choline                               11 mg

Betaine                                3.9 mg

Minerals

Calcium                               1002 mg

Iron                                      8.3 mg

Magnesium                        60 mg

Manganese                         17.5 mg

Phosphorus                         64 mg

Potassium                           431 mg

Sodium                                10 mg

Zinc                                       1.8 mg

Copper                                 0.3 mg

Selenium                             3.1 mcg

Properties:

Shape:  Quills

Size:  2-4 in

Color: Reddish Brown

Taste:  Sweet and Mellow