loves are the dried unopened flower buds of a tropical evergreen tree. They are picked when they begin to turn red at the base and are dried in the sun. Native to the Moluccas, introduced to China in 200 B.C. and used to perfume the breath and as an antiseptic. Culinary uses include; use in sweet spice blends for cakes and fruit, to pickles, preserved meats and curries.

Cloves are considered to be a pungent spice having a strong ‘antiseptic’ note that reminds many of us of the dentist!