1 Tsp. (2.1 G) Cloves, ground has a calorie count of 6 per serving. Cloves are a type of spice that is commonly used in cooking and have a distinct, strong flavor. They are packed with nutrients and offer a range of health benefits. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value, health benefits, and culinary uses of cloves, as well as provide tips for buying and storing them.
Cloves Ground are rich in manganese, vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber. They also contain small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E. In addition, cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Consuming cloves may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
By incorporating cloves into your diet, you can experience their many health benefits and add a unique flavor to your dishes. Let's dive deeper into the nutritional value and culinary uses of cloves, as well as explore the precautions you should take when using them in your recipes.
Calories in Cloves Ground
Ground cloves are a low-calorie spice, with just 6 calories per teaspoon. This makes them a great choice for adding flavor to your dishes without significantly increasing their calorie count. It's worth noting that most recipes call for only small amounts of cloves, so the caloric impact of this spice is typically negligible. However, if you are tracking your calorie intake, it's always a good idea to be mindful of the ingredients you use in your cooking.
Cloves Ground: Carb Content
Ground cloves have a low carb content, with just 1 gram of carbohydrates per teaspoon. This means that they can be included in a variety of diets, including low-carb and keto diets. Cloves are also a good source of fiber, with 1 gram of fiber per teaspoon. Fiber is important for maintaining healthy digestion and can help lower the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Protein in Cloves Ground
Ground cloves contain a small amount of protein, with 0.1 grams per teaspoon. While this isn't a significant source of protein, it can contribute to your daily intake if used in larger amounts.
Fat in Cloves Ground
Ground cloves have a negligible amount of fat, with less than 0.1 grams per teaspoon. This makes them a great option for those following a low-fat diet.
Vitamins and Minerals in Cloves Ground
Cloves are a good source of several key vitamins and minerals, including manganese, vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber. These nutrients play important roles in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Manganese: 1 teaspoon of ground cloves contains 17% of the recommended daily intake of manganese. Manganese is important for bone health and wound healing. Vitamin K: 1 teaspoon of ground cloves contains 4% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health.
Health Benefits of Cloves Ground
Cloves are packed with health benefits, thanks to their high nutrient content and the presence of the compound eugenol. Here are a few of the ways that cloves may benefit your health: - Anti-inflammatory: Eugenol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. - Digestive health: Cloves may help improve digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Uses of Cloves Ground in Cooking
Cloves have a distinct, strong flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ways to use ground cloves in your cooking: - Baked goods: Cloves are often used in baked goods such as gingerbread, pumpkin pie, and fruit cakes. - Spice blends: Cloves are a key ingredient in many spice blends, including garam masala and Chinese five spice.
Cloves Ground: Culinary Pairings
Cloves pair well with a variety of spices and flavors. Here are a few ingredients that pair well with ground cloves: - Cinnamon: Cinnamon and cloves are often used together in baking and spice blends. - Ginger: Ginger and cloves both have a warming, spicy flavor and are often used together in savory dishes such as curries.
Buying and Storing Cloves Ground
When buying ground cloves, look for a high-quality product that is fresh and aromatic. You can also purchase whole cloves and grind them yourself using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. To store ground cloves, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve their flavor and aroma. Ground cloves can last for up to 6 months when stored properly.
Precautions When Using Cloves Ground
While cloves are generally safe to consume in small amounts, there are a few precautions you should take when using them in your cooking: - Allergies: Some people may be allergic to cloves and experience symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you have a known allergy to cloves, avoid consuming them. - Medications: Cloves may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications. If you are taking any medications, consult your healthcare provider before consuming cloves.
Cloves are a versatile spice that can add flavor and health benefits to a variety of dishes.
FAQ about Ground Cloves
1. How many calories are there in 1 tsp. (2.1 g) of ground cloves?
There are 6 calories in 1 tsp. (2.1 g) of ground cloves.
2. What are ground cloves commonly used for?
Ground cloves are commonly used as a spice in baking, cooking, and as a flavoring in hot and cold drinks.
3. Are there any health benefits to consuming ground cloves?
Yes, ground cloves are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They may also aid digestion and oral health.
4. How should ground cloves be stored?
Ground cloves should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They should be used within 6 months for optimal freshness.
5. Can ground cloves be substituted for whole cloves in recipes?
Yes, ground cloves can be substituted for whole cloves in recipes. Use 3/4 tsp. of ground cloves for every 1 tsp. of whole cloves called for in a recipe.