Cinnamon is one of the most delicious fragrances of the Season! Although cinnamon is available throughout the year, the aromatic, deliciously sweet and warm taste of the spice make it the perfect spice to use during the fall and winter months. The spice is readily available and used both inside and outside our kitchen. It is such a commonly used spice, we may give little thought to its origin and history.
Cinnamon has a spicy history
Cinnamon has been used for thousands of years! The ancient Egyptians utilized this spice as a flavoring for beverages, for medicinal purposes, and as a step in the embalming process. Its use and popularity became widespread in Egypt, although the Arabs seemed to hold the monopoly on the popular spice. They kept its origins a secret, creating elaborate tales, and adventurous stories surrounding the acquisition of the spice. This early ‘supply and demand’ allowed them to drive the market with outrageous prices and create a monopoly. The desire to enjoy this luxury good drove explorers to set sail in search of their own stockpile of the exotic spice. Eventually Portuguese explorers and traders discovered their own cache at Ceylon, or modern day Sri Lanka. By the time the British took over the country, itwas no longer a rarity and the price no longer exorbitant.
There is more than one type of Cinnamon
The two varieties of commercial cinnamon, cassia and Ceylon, have similar flavor, however the cinnamon from Ceylon is slightly sweeter, more refined and more difficult to find in local markets. The Ceylon type is more expensive and produced in Sri Lanka. Cassia is produced in Indonesia and has a stronger aroma and taste. Cassia cinnamon is what we would typically purchase from the spice aisle of our local grocer.
Potential Benefits of Cinnamon
Featured photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/manuuuuuu/ via flickr.com
