Sri Lankan Clove

THEclovesare the dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), a tropical tree native to the Indonesian islands of the Moluccas, also known asSpice IslandsHarvested just before they bloom, then dried in the sun, these small dark brown cloves concentrate an exceptional aromatic power.

In Sri Lanka, cloves have found an ideal home: a warm, humid climate, fertile soils, and agricultural know-how passed down for centuries. Grown primarily in the Matale, Kandy, and Sabaragamuwa regions, they enjoy perfect conditions to develop their warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma.

Used since ancient times, cloves were already prized for their medicinal properties, their power to preserve food, and of course, their captivating aroma. They were among the most sought-after spices on the great trade routes between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Their value was such that they were sometimes used as currency.

Today, theCeylon clovesare sought after for their superior quality: an intense, persistent but elegant aroma, and a great richness in natural essential oil, notably eugenol, responsible for their characteristic fragrance.

At Lokayah, we have selected cloves from crops that respect nature, to offer you a noble, vibrant spice, deeply rooted in the history of taste and travel.

THEcloveis a powerful and precious spice, to be used with finesse to enhance your recipes.

In savory cuisine

Add a few cloves to your broths, stews, curries, or simmered sauces. They delicately flavor meats, vegetables, and casseroles. Remember to remove them before serving to avoid an overpowering flavor.

In sweet cuisine

Cloves go wonderfully with fruit-based desserts (apples, pears, plums), gingerbread, and homemade compotes.

In drinks

Infuse 1 to 2 cloves into mulled wine, herbal teas, cider, or even black tea for a warm and spicy aroma.

🇫🇷France–Mulled wine with spices:Cloves are essential in mulled wine spice blends, where they add warmth and depth.

🇮🇳India–Biryani:In this iconic spiced rice dish, cloves subtly flavor the cooking along with cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin.

🇩🇪Germany–Gingerbread (Lebkuchen):Cloves bring their aromatic signature to traditional Christmas gingerbread.

🇲🇦Morocco–Lamb tagine with prunes:Used sparingly, cloves enhance sweet and savory stews.

🇱🇰Sri Lanka–Fragrant curries:Cloves are incorporated into spice blends to enrich curries, fragrant rice, and saucy dishes.

Lokayah Tip

To fully release their aromas, lightly crush the cloves before brewing or cooking. Use them sparingly: their natural potency is enough to enrich an entire preparation.