5 Reasons Why Cinnamon Is So Much More Than Just A Spice

5 Reasons Why Cinnamon Is So Much More Than Just A Spice

Cinnamon is often associated with warmth and is a popular ingredient in many dishes. But cinnamon has many unique uses apart from adding flavour to food. Here are 5 unique facts about this spice.

Cinnamon used to be at least 15 times more expensive than silver.

Way, way back in the day – we’re talking first century A.D. here – cinnamon was incredibly expensive, especially in Rome. It was considered a precious commodity, given its high demand and low supply. Once the regularity of foreign exploration kicked in, cinnamon became more available and therefore more affordable.

Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices known.

Did you know that cinnamon was even mentioned in the Bible? It was also used in ancient Egypt not only as a beverage flavouring and medicine, but also as an embalming agent. It was so highly treasured that it was considered more precious than gold.

There are actually two kinds of cinnamon, and the more common type is dangerous.

Americans are used to the “Cassia” variety (from Indonesia and China), even though the “Ceylon” plant is considered the real, true spice, which is popular for tea. A key difference between the two is that Cassia has a lot more coumarin in it than Ceylon. Coumarin is a toxic chemical compound and can be very dangerous when consumed in large amounts, especially for pregnant ladies.

Cinnamon oil will prevent bugs from feasting on you.

While it sounds like a delicious addition to anything, cinnamon oil works especially well as a pesticide. Think of it as a natural way of preventing yourself from getting bitten by mosquitoes and add a few drops or sprinklings to your body lotion next time you are worried about getting bitten.

Cinnamon has so many health benefits.

According to analysis and studies, cinnamon has been proven to be beneficial for those concerned with diabetes. There have also been studies that have shown that cinnamon can lower lipid levels, such as LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. These are just a few of the health benefits cinnamon has to offer.

At Anat cinnamon is a common spice used in our dishes, and we love it for its warm, delicious flavor. Next time you’re in the mood for something nutritious and tasty, visit your nearest Anat store. You won’t be disappointed!

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This Trinidad Chicken Roti recipe is great for those who love Caribbean flavours. It is simple to make and totally delicious! What You’ll Need: Chicken Marinade • 600g deboned and skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces • ½ teaspoon white pepper • ½ teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon crushed garlic • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon curry powder • ½ teaspoon chicken stock Chicken Roti • Canola or Olive oil for cooking • 1 large onion, diced • 2 teaspoons crushed garlic • 1 ½ teaspoons of fresh or dried thyme • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika • 1 teaspoon cumin spice • 1 teaspoon ground allspice • 2-3 tablespoons curry powder (depending on your taste) • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1 can chickpeas, drained • 1 tablespoon chicken stock • 2 cups cubed potatoes • ½ - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) • 1 teaspoon white pepper • 3-4 cups chicken stock or water • Salt to taste • Anat roti’s How to Make the Roti’s? 1. Place your chicken in a large bowl and add your garlic, thyme, salt, white pepper and curry powder. 2. Mix the chicken with a spoon or with your hands until all the pieces are well coated. Set this aside in the fridge and allow it to marinade for at least 30 minutes. If you can leave it for longer or overnight, the flavor is even better. 3. When you are ready to cook, heat up your oil a large saucepan and add your onion, garlic, thyme, cumin, allspice, smoked paprika, nutmeg and your curry powder. Stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes until your onions are translucent. 4. You are now ready to add your chicken. Once added, stir and sauté this for about 2-3 more minutes. Add your chicken stock or water if necessary, to prevent anything from burning. 5. Next, add your chickpeas, chicken stock, cayenne pepper, white pepper and potatoes. Bring the mixture to the boil and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. This takes 20-30 minutes. 6. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once ready, fill your Anat roti’s with the mixture and enjoy!Trinidad Chicken Roti
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