Fresh cinnamon sticks are thin, curled and very hard and while they can be added to drinks and some dishes as is, you might require them ground to use for cooking, baking and in drinks. Grinding them up into powder is a job for a grinder.
If you don’t have a dedicated spice grinder, there are a few alternative methods you can use to grind cinnamon sticks into powder:
Grinding cinnamon sticks into powder without a grinder can be done using common kitchen tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Ingredients and Tools
- Cinnamon sticks
- Microplane grater or fine cheese grater
- Small bowl or plate
- Sieve or fine-mesh strainer (optional)
Instructions
Remember to use a gentle grating motion to avoid damaging your grater and to be cautious of your fingers while grating. Grinding cinnamon sticks by hand can be a bit more labor-intensive than using an electric grinder, but it can yield excellent results for your culinary creations.
- Break the Cinnamon Sticks:
If the cinnamon sticks are long, you can break them into smaller pieces with your hands or by placing them inside a plastic bag and gently tapping them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy glass. This will make the grinding process easier. - Use a Microplane or Cheese Grater:
- Hold the microplane grater or cheese grater over a small bowl or plate.
- Take one of the broken cinnamon stick pieces and hold it at the top.
- Carefully rub the cinnamon stick against the fine grating surface of the microplane or cheese grater, applying light pressure.
- Grate the cinnamon stick in a downward motion, moving it back and forth across the grating surface.
- Continue grating until you have enough cinnamon powder for your recipe.
- Collect the Powder: As you grate the cinnamon stick, the powder will fall onto the plate or into the bowl. Continue grating more sticks if needed to achieve the desired amount of cinnamon powder.
- Sieve (Optional):
If you want an even finer texture, you can pass the freshly grated cinnamon powder through a sieve or fine-mesh strainer to remove any larger pieces or fibers. - Use the Powder:
Once you have ground the cinnamon sticks into a fine powder, you can use it immediately in your recipes. The freshly ground cinnamon will have a more vibrant flavor and aroma compared to pre-ground cinnamon.
Alternative Methods Of Grinding Cinnamon
If you don’t have a spice grinder and want to grind cinnamon sticks into powder, there are several alternative methods you can use:
- Mortar and Pestle: A mortar and pestle is a classic tool for grinding spices. Place the cinnamon sticks in the mortar and use the pestle to crush and grind them into a fine powder. This method allows you to have more control over the consistency of the powder.
- Coffee Grinder: If you have a coffee grinder that you use exclusively for spices, it can work well for grinding cinnamon sticks. Simply break the sticks into smaller pieces and grind them in the coffee grinder until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Blender or Food Processor: You can use a high-powered blender or a food processor to grind cinnamon sticks. Break the sticks into smaller pieces, place them in the blender or food processor, and pulse until you have a fine powder. Be sure to clean the appliance thoroughly afterward to remove any residual cinnamon flavor.
- Rolling Pin: Place the cinnamon sticks inside a plastic bag or between two layers of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to roll over the sticks, applying firm pressure. Continue rolling until the cinnamon sticks are crushed into a powder. This method is less precise but can work in a pinch.
- Hammer and Plastic Bag: Put the cinnamon sticks in a sturdy plastic bag and seal it. Use a hammer or mallet to gently pound and crush the sticks inside the bag. Check the progress periodically until you achieve the desired level of fineness.
- Grate with a Knife: If you don’t have a grater, you can carefully use a sharp knife to scrape and shave off thin layers of the cinnamon sticks. Collect the shavings and repeat until you have enough powder.
When using these alternative methods, keep in mind that the consistency of the cinnamon powder may not be as fine as that produced by a dedicated spice grinder. Experiment with the method that works best for you and the equipment you have available, and enjoy the fresh flavor and aroma of freshly ground cinnamon in your recipes.
What Dishes Use Ground Fresh Cinnamon?
Ground cinnamon is a versatile spice that is used in a wide range of dishes and cuisines. Some popular dishes that use ground fresh cinnamon include:
- Bakery goods: Cinnamon is a popular ingredient in baked goods such as cinnamon rolls, cinnamon buns, and apple pie.
- Breakfast dishes: Cinnamon is a common ingredient in breakfast dishes such as oatmeal, pancakes, and French toast.
- Desserts: Cinnamon is often used to flavor desserts such as cakes, puddings, and custards.
- Meat dishes: Cinnamon is used in savory meat dishes such as Moroccan tagine and Indian curries.
- Drinks: Cinnamon is also a popular ingredient in hot drinks such as cider, hot chocolate, and coffee, and also in cold drinks such as iced tea and smoothies.
- Spiced nuts and fruits: Cinnamon is often used to flavor nuts such as almonds, pecans and fruits like apples, pears, and berries.
- Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Cuisine: Cinnamon is a staple in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, it’s used in both sweet and savory dishes, in meat, vegetables and grains.
- African cuisine: Cinnamon is also used in African cuisine, particularly in the North African cuisine, as a flavoring ingredient in stews, tagines, and couscous.
Ground cinnamon has a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that can add depth and complexity to many dishes.
Final Thoughts On Ground Cinnamon
Here’s a table comparing the culinary attributes and benefits of Ground Cinnamon:
| Attribute | Ground Cinnamon |
|---|---|
| Texture | Fine powder, smooth and easily disperses in recipes. |
| Flavor Release | Rapid and intense; readily releases flavor when mixed. |
| Color | Deep brown, adds a warm hue to dishes and baked goods. |
| Common Uses | – Versatile spice used in sweet and savory dishes. |
| – Adds warmth and depth to baked goods, desserts, and beverages. | |
| – Popular in cinnamon rolls, apple pies, and mulled wines. | |
| – Common in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. | |
| Baking | Frequently used in baking, adding flavor and fragrance to cakes, cookies, and bread. |
| Storage | Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor and aroma. |
| Cost | Generally affordable and widely available. |
| Smell | Sweet, warm, and inviting aroma, particularly when freshly ground. |
| Taste | – Sweet and slightly spicy with a warming sensation. |
| – A balance of sweet and savory notes, enhancing various dishes. | |
| Culinary Advantages | – Versatile and complements both sweet and savory dishes. |
| – Adds depth and complexity to recipes, enhancing overall flavor. | |
| – Often used as a flavor enhancer in spice blends, like pumpkin spice and garam masala. | |
| – Provides a signature warmth and comfort in baked goods and hot beverages. |
Ground cinnamon is a beloved spice in culinary traditions around the world, known for its ability to infuse dishes with its distinct sweet, spicy, and aromatic characteristics. Its fine texture, ease of use, and versatility make it a staple in many kitchens for a wide range of recipes, from desserts to savory dishes.