Cinnamon 101 with Sweet and Savory Recipes

Cinnamon is recognizable to most of us, because it is one of the world's most frequently eaten spices. However, this spice's description, handling and possible health benefits may not be as familiar to you.

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines cinnamon as

a: the aromatic, dried bark of any of several tropical trees (genus Cinnamomum) yielding a culinary spice, oil, and flavoring

especially a small roll or quill of cinnamon bark

b

: the tan to dark brown spice that is prepared from cinnamon bark by powdering and has a somewhat sweet and spicy taste

Note: Ceylon cinnamon comes from a tree (Cinnamomum verum) of Sri Lanka and southern India and is usually considered to be true cinnamon. Chinese cinnamon, Indonesian cinnamon, and Saigon cinnamon come from several related trees and typically comprise most of the less expensive cinnamon spice sold in stores. This spice, also known as cassia, tends to have a stronger, spicier character than true cinnamon.

 

Whole quills of the inner bark of cinnamon, keep indefinitely, but is hard to grind. Store-bought ground cinnamon loses flavor quickly. Buy small quantities of ground cinnamon and keep it dry and out of the sun.

Cinnamon is widely used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding a warm, comforting flavor and aroma. It is popular in baked goods like banana bread, apple pie, and baked apples, as well as in breakfast items like French toast and oatmeal. 

Photo Credit Nancy Andres, Steel Cut Oats with Banana and Cinnamon

Cinnamon also enhances the flavor of savory dishes including chili, stews, and curries.

Photo Credit Nancy Andres, Vegan Bean and Veggie Chili, Brown Rice, Salsa, Guacamole, Corn Chips  

Cinnamon is a potent spice, rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. 

My research suggests it may help regulate blood sugar, prevent bacterial and fungal infections, protect against heart disease, and reduce inflammation.

Keep on reading to see how simple and exciting it is to incorporate cinnamon into delicious recipes and take advantage of its many nutrition benefits.

Note: This post is intended for entertainment and educational purposes only. It is not to be taken as medical or nutrition advice. Consult with a nutrition/health professional before trying any new food. 

First up is "Tempting and Easy Baked Apple Recipe," one of my original/favorite cinnamon flavored healthy desserts.

Recipe and Photo Credit to Nancy Andres at Colors 4 Health

Serve warm, and this cinnamon-spiked baked apple tastes scrumptious. I love it as it's a snap to make, has no refined sugar, is gluten free, and oil free as well.

Next up is a moist, scrumptious sweet bread recipe from Julie West, the food blogger at the Simple Veganista. "Vegan Banana Bread" is easy to put together and so satisfying.

Recipe and Photo Credit to Julie West at the Simple Veganista

This recipe tastes sweet from the cinnamon, and is egg and dairy-free. It has an oil-free option, and is the BEST banana bread recipe ever!

Cinnamon adds a savory note to a warming, fun recipe for Cinnamon-spiced Chickpea and Lentil Stew.

Recipe and Photo Credit from Nava Atlas at the Vegan Atlas

Last but not least is a colorful main dish, an original from food blogger Nava Atlas at the Vegan Atlas.

No matter how we serve it, cinnamon shines with an aromatic presence in both sweet and savory dishes. 

Recipes that contain cinnamon are eye catching and vibrant, with a pleasing reddish-brown color. Cinnamon is particularly noticeable, when used in baked goods or as a garnish.

Do you enjoy the flavor of cinnamon, and do you keep some on hand? Please comment below.

Which recipe or recipes do you think you'd like to try out? 

If you see a recipe from one of my fellow bloggers that you enjoyed reading, please drop by their website to let them know.

Have you made similar dishes and when do you like to serve them? Breakfast, lunch, or dinner? 

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This post has been shared at Full Plate Thurs. 744