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What is cassia and what does it taste like?
Cassia is a spice that is often confused with cinnamon because of its similar appearance. However, they have slightly different flavors and come from different parts of the world. While true cinnamon is primarily found in Sri Lanka, cassia, also known as cinnamomum cassia, is native to central China. When you buy cinnamon at the grocery store, whether ground or in stick form, you are actually buying cassia.
How is cassia made?
Cassia production is a manual process. The bark of the evergreen tree is harvested after the trees have been allowed to grow for at least 10 years. The outer bark is then removed to reveal the inner bark, which is dried. During the drying process, cassia takes on its characteristic spiral shape. An interesting aspect of cassia production is that new trees can grow from the stumps of harvested trees, making it a sustainable practice for farmers in Indonesia.
What does cassia taste like?
Cassia has a long history and can be traced back thousands of years. It is mentioned in the Bible, both as an oil and a perfume in the Book of Exodus, and as a trade commodity in the Book of Ezekiel. In terms of flavor, cassia has a slightly milder but more intense flavor compared to true cinnamon. This is due to the high amount of oil in its bark. Cassia is often described as warm and sweet, with a hint of spiciness that gives your taste buds a pleasant kick. It’s important to note that cassia contains a blood-thinning agent called coumarin, which is not harmful unless you are taking blood-thinning medications. Moderation is advised, as consuming more than 6 grams of cassia daily may cause liver problems.
How to cook with cassia
Cassia can be used in a variety of recipes, especially those with more savory than sweet elements. In addition to using the bark, there are other parts of the cassia plant that can be used. Dried cassia buds, which resemble cloves, impart a cinnamon-like flavor and are great for pickling, brewing tea, or enhancing meat marinades. Cassia leaves can add depth to soups, chilies, and stews, similar to the use of bay leaves. Cassia has found its way into cuisines around the world as a key ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder, Mexican moles, and Guatemalan coffee.
Where to buy cassia
Cassia is widely available and can be found in most grocery stores. One top brand that stands out on the market is Frontier Co-op. Their cassia comes from Indonesia and is derived from Korintje cinnamon, which is closely related to cassia. Frontier Co-op cassia has a warm and sweet taste with a welcome kick of heat, making it suitable for both savory and sweet recipes. It is the same type of cinnamon that gives Cinnabon’s cinnamon rolls their irresistible aroma. Frontier Co-op cinnamon can be purchased online. When storing cassia, it is best to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
Nutrition information for Cassia
In addition to its flavor, cassia cinnamon offers potential health benefits. It may be helpful for people with diabetes, as it has been shown to help normalize glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Cassia cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties and may freshen breath and fight infections. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or using cassia cinnamon as a supplement. If you are using Cassia cinnamon to control blood sugar levels and are scheduled for surgery, it is recommended that you avoid taking it for at least two weeks prior to surgery. In addition, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should exercise caution and consider avoiding cassia cinnamon to ensure safety.
In conclusion, cassia is a spice that is very similar to cinnamon, but has its own unique flavor profile. It is widely used in various cuisines and offers potential health benefits. Understanding the differences between cassia and cinnamon can help you make informed choices when cooking and enjoying these aromatic spices.
FAQS
Cassia and cinnamon are both spices from the laurel family, but they have slightly different flavors. Cassia is often referred to as “Chinese cinnamon” and is native to central China, while true cinnamon is found primarily in Sri Lanka. When you buy cinnamon at the grocery store, you are actually buying cassia.
How can I tell the difference between cinnamon and cassia?
The trick to telling the difference between cinnamon and cassia is in their appearance. True cinnamon sticks have a spiral shape that curls into concentric, tubular sections. Cassia sticks, on the other hand, curl inward on both sides, resembling a scroll.
What does cassia taste like?
Cassia has a slightly milder but more intense flavor than true cinnamon. It is often described as warm and sweet with a hint of spiciness. The high amount of oil in cassia’s bark contributes to its distinct flavor profile.
Can I use Cassia in sweet recipes?
While cassia is commonly used in savory dishes, it can also be used in sweet recipes. However, because of its stronger flavor, it is best used in dishes that have more savory than sweet elements.
Where can I buy cassia?
Cassia is widely available and can be found in most grocery stores. A recommended brand is Frontier Co-op, which offers high-quality cassia derived from Korintje cinnamon. It can also be purchased online for convenience.
Are there any health concerns with consuming cassia?
Cassia contains a blood thinner called coumarin. While this is not necessarily harmful, it is important to exercise moderation. Consuming more than 6 grams of cassia daily may cause liver problems. If you are taking blood-thinning medications, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before consuming cassia.