African cinnamon spice wonders
What's the story
Cinnamon, one of the most cherished spices, holds a special place in Africa's culinary and medicinal history. For hundreds of years, Africans have harnessed its sweet, warming flavor and healing properties. This article features five delectable dishes that showcase the transformative power of cinnamon in African cuisine. Whether it's a sweet indulgence or a savory masterpiece, cinnamon brings a comforting warmth and complexity to every dish.
Warmth in a cup
Cinnamon tea infusion
In most African homes, winter months are synonymous with a warm cup of cinnamon tea. To create this cozy concoction, you just have to boil some water with a couple of cinnamon sticks and then sweeten it with honey or sugar. This modest but fragrant elixir is not only comforting but also thought to be beneficial for health, enhancing immunity and promoting digestion.
Comfort food
Sweet potato cinnamon mash
Sweet potatoes are a staple in African cuisine. By simply incorporating ground cinnamon as you mash them, you can transform this modest dish into a gourmet delight. The inherent sweetness of the sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the warming spice of cinnamon, resulting in a comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with both meat and vegetarian main courses.
Aromatic delight
Cinnamon-spiced Moroccan tagine
The Moroccan tagine is famous for its delectable flavors and melt-in-your-mouth meat or vegetables. By adding cinnamon sticks during cooking, you'll infuse the dish with a gentle warmth that complements the savory ingredients perfectly. Whether you're preparing a chicken, lamb, or vegetable tagine, a hint of cinnamon can elevate this classic North African stew into a culinary masterpiece.
Flavorful tradition
Ethiopian cinnamon lentils
In Ethiopia, they take it to a whole new level by cooking lentils with a berbere spice mix that includes ground cinnamon along with a bunch of other spices. This creates a super hearty and flavorful stew called misir wot. The earthy lentils combined with the warm spiciness of cinnamon make for a seriously comforting meal. And, it's typically served with injera (a sourdough flatbread) on the side.
Sweet indulgence
Cinnamon rice pudding
Rice pudding, a beloved dessert in many cultures, gets a delicious makeover in several African countries with the addition of local flavors. Ground cinnamon and raisins are stirred into the rice pudding as it simmers, resulting in a decadent, creamy, and aromatic treat. It's usually served chilled or at room temperature, providing the perfect sweet ending to any meal.