Clove (with recipe)

            The dried flower buds of the large evergreen clove tree form this nail-shaped spice. The name “clove” is derived from the French clou, meaning nail. Originally native to the Molucca (or spice) Islands, the clove tree was smuggled out to other islands with intricate subterfuge by spice-hungry colonialist nations.

            The clove is now used primarily as a culinary spice, excellent for adding flavor to baked goods and spiced drinks. But its uses are far more varied. To chew a clove sweetens the breath, and ancient Chinese officials were once allowed to approach their monarch only when holding cloves in their mouths. A few cloves brewed with tea add enticing flavor, as well as giving a carminative effect to the tea. In a container of water set on a warm stove, they will deodorize a room. Mulled wine flavored with cloves offers a more exciting way to aid the digestion than most commercial concoctions. Clove oil is a natural pain reliever and can be used to relive toothaches. As a tincture, clove is said to be effective in the treatment of athlete’s foot and well as other fungal infections.

            In the kitchen, use cloves sparingly, for their flavor is heavy. Try tossing an onion studded with a few cloves into your next pot of stew or rice.

            On rainy autumn days your children might enjoy the sweet-smelling activity of pomander-ball making; they will be ready in time for the holidays.

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POMANDER BALLS

Oranges, thin-skinned

Cloves aplenty

Cinnamon, powdered

·        Make sure the oranges are thin-skinned variety, or there will be sore fingers at the end of this game. For added protection, Band-Aids can be placed for padding on appropriate fingers – what child will not love an excuse for a Band-Aid!

·        Stud each orange all over with cloves, pushing them right in up to their tops. Roll studded oranges in powdered cinnamon, and pat an a heavy coating. Wrap each fruit in tissue paper, place in a cupboard or dark, cool place, and cure it for about six weeks. Then shake off excess cinnamon and the pomanders are ready to impart their sweet smell to closets and cupboards.