- 1). Use in baked items. Mixed with other spices, such as powdered ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg, ground cloves provide zing to gingerbread cookies, spiced muffins, breads and cookies. A sprinkling of ground cloves also works well with applesauce or baked pears.
- 2). Stir into soups or stews to bring out rich, exotic flavors. Ground cloves add flavor to dishes like Middle Eastern-style chickpea stew, African lentil soup or classic American beef stew. Use one to two teaspoons at a time to prevent overpowering the meal.
- 3). Whisk a pinch of ground cloves into homemade or store-bought gravy. The addition of this spice can brighten up standard white or brown gravy for chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, roast beef or ham.
- 4). Blend into beverages such as hot tea. Steep one teaspoon ground cloves in a cup of water for 20 minutes before pouring through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Sweeten with honey or combine with chai spices. Ground cloves also feature well in holiday-themed mulled wine or hot apple cider.
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