Ceylon Cinnamon – What You Should Know

Ceylon Cinnamon – What You Should Know

Ceylon cinnamon, also referred to as true cinnamon, is obtained from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum Verum plant and has been a staple spice in Sri Lankan cuisine for millennia. Its subtle taste and scent, reminiscent of freshly-ground cinnamon, make it renowned as the finest variety of cinnamon worldwide. For those curious about Ceylon cinnamon and its benefits, read on!

Ceylon Cinnamon – What Is It?

Ceylon Cinnamon, aka True Cinnamon, is a variety of cinnamon that originates from Sri Lanka and boasts a gentler, sweeter flavor than other cinnamon types, making it a popular choice for cooking and baking. Furthermore, there are numerous advantages to using Ceylon cinnamon, such as regulating blood sugar levels, decreasing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive function. To obtain the maximum benefits, it is recommended to purchase organic Ceylon cinnamon. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon is available in a powdered form that is suitable for adding to smoothies or baking recipes.

Cassia Cinnamon Vs. Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon, which is grown organically in Sri Lanka is milder and sweeter in taste compared to Cassia cinnamon, which is grown in China and has a more robust, pungent flavor. While both types of cinnamon can be used interchangeably in recipes, Ceylon cinnamon is the preferred option if you seek an authentic cinnamon flavor. Ceylon cinnamon powder can be utilized in baking, as a spice for savory dishes, or steeped as a tea. Some suggest that it may help regulate blood sugar levels, alleviate inflammation, and enhance cognitive function.

How Does It Taste? The Flavor Profile of Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon boasts a gentle, subtle taste with a touch of sweetness that complements other flavors without overpowering them, making it a popular choice for baking. Opting for organic Ceylon cinnamon is a wise decision for those who wish to avoid the coumarin present in cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon powder is less potent than cassia, allowing you to use more without overwhelming the taste of your food or drink. 

When incorporated into cooking or baking, Ceylon cinnamon powder can enhance the flavor and sweetness of dishes without the addition of sugar, making it an excellent substitute for individuals aiming to reduce their sugar intake. Furthermore, it offers unique advantages that surpass those of standard cinnamon, such as containing lower levels of coumarin, a substance that may elevate the risk of bleeding after surgery or other invasive procedures. Additionally, due to its greater concentration of volatile oils and phenolic compounds, this cinnamon variant has a more intense flavor than other types commonly found at supermarkets. Thus, acquiring a jar of organic Ceylon cinnamon could be a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a natural approach to reap the added health benefits of a delectable indulgence.

Ceylon Cinnamon’s Benefits 

When it comes to cinnamon, most individuals immediately picture the cassia variety, which is the most prevalent cinnamon type found in grocery stores. However, there exists an alternative cinnamon variant known as Ceylon cinnamon that, while not as well-known, provides impressive benefits. Ceylon cinnamon is richer in phenolic compounds than other cinnamon types and boasts a lower coumarin content, rendering it safe for consumption without worrying about potential liver damage. For example, research indicates that Ceylon cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance, two conditions individuals with diabetes or prediabetes must avoid. Additionally, studies suggest that consuming Ceylon cinnamon over time can increase feelings of satiety and decrease appetite, making it a useful tool for individuals with obesity looking to manage their weight by consuming fewer calories.

Best Uses For Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, hails from Sri Lanka and exhibits a light brown color with a velvety, fragrant taste. Unlike other cinnamon types, Ceylon cinnamon sticks or quills curl into a tubular shape. Here are some of the top ways to employ this delectable spice:

1. Spruce up your breakfast cereal with a dash of Ceylon cinnamon for a zesty twist!
2. Enhance the flavor of your favorite apple pie or dessert recipe by sprinkling Ceylon cinnamon on top!
3. When creating homemade pumpkin or sweet potato pie, add a couple of teaspoons of Ceylon cinnamon for even more scrumptiousness!
4. Incorporate it into trail mix, granola, or yogurt parfait recipes for an unbeatable taste!
5. As an after-dinner treat, pour a teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon into a cup of tea or coffee. Dark chocolate and Ceylon cinnamon complement each other excellently. Simply mix one teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon with two tablespoons of melted dark chocolate and drizzle over ice cream for an indulgent treat that will satisfy any chocolate lover.
6. Lastly, if you’re searching for a healthy way to quell your cravings, try Ceylon cinnamon. According to a study, adding half a teaspoon per day can decrease cravings by up to 10%!

Where To Buy Ceylon Cinnamon?

If you’re seeking a reliable source of premium Ceylon cinnamon, look no further! We here at Spice Station Silver Lake provide the highest quality of those harder to find spices, like Ceylon cinnamon which can be found here. 

Cooking with Ceylon Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used in various recipes for centuries. Records of human consumption of cinnamon dates back to 2000 BC in Egypt when it was used medicinally and in culinary dishes. 

Presently, the global annual production of cinnamon and cassia is approximately 30,000 tons, with Cinnamomum verum accounting for roughly one-third of that amount (with 90% of that supply originating from Sri Lanka). While cinnamon is commonly used in desserts as a topping for yogurt or porridge or as a flavoring for mulled wine or hot cocoa, it can also add a delightful dimension to savory dishes. For example, Moroccan cuisine often employs cinnamon in savory entrees, as does Sicilian cooking. Consider using it with grilled octopus or in the classic Moroccan cinnamon chicken dish, where it is complemented by cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, along with diced dates and apples, and served alongside heaps of couscous. Another excellent option is the Sicilian baked pasta “cake” known as Timballo, which showcases the spice beautifully.

Aside from sweet dessert recipes, one of the more well-known uses for Ceylon cinnamon is a simple and sweet recipe for Cinnamon Tea. 

Cinnamon tea is a fascinating beverage that could provide numerous health advantages. Cinnamon tea is rich in beneficial compounds that offer various health benefits, such as promoting weight loss, enhancing heart health, easing menstrual cramps, and decreasing inflammation and blood sugar levels.

Below I’ve shared with you my personal favorite recipe for making Cinnamon Tea. I love all kinds of tea and enjoy benefiting from the medicinal properties they provide. This particular tea is no different. It offers both savory and sweet flavors and boasts many health benefits. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! 

Cinnamon Tea Recipe: 

Ingredients: 

• 1.5 cups Water
• 1 stick Ceylon Cinnamon
• 1 tsp local honey
• 4-5 tulsi (also known as holy basil or Indian basil) leaves
• A few drops of Lemon Juice

Instructions: 

Pour the water into a small saucepan. Add Ceylon cinnamon and tulsi leaves. Allow water to come to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to medium-high and simmer for 5-6 minutes. Then remove the lid and stir while it continues to simmer until the water is reduced to one cup. Once this is done, then strain the tea into your favorite tea cup and then add as much or little of the lemon juice as you prefer. Lastly, stir in a teaspoon of local honey and enjoy!  

Note: 

For weight loss, consume this tea either in the morning on an empty stomach, or 30-40 minutes before going to bed.