The Ultimate Guide to Chinese Cinnamon Sticks

Chinese cinnamon sticks, also known as cassia cinnamon, are a treasure trove of aromatic flavors and medicinal properties. In our ultimate guide, unlock the secrets of these fragrant spice sticks as we delve into their diverse applications, including culinary delights, herbal remedies, and more. 

Introduction to Chinese Cinnamon Sticks: Origin and Significance

Chinese cinnamon sticks, also known as cassia cinnamon or Gui Zhi in Chinese, have a rich history and significant cultural significance. Originating from southern China, these aromatic spice sticks are cultivated from the bark of the Cinnamomum cassia.

Chinese cinnamon has been a cherished ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine and culinary practices for centuries. It is renowned for its warm and sweet flavor profile, often used in cooking, herbal remedies, and tea blends. 

Chinese cinnamon sticks are highly valued for their believed health benefits, including improving circulation, relieving pain, and boosting energy. Their cultural and medicinal importance has made them an integral part of Chinese heritage and cuisine.

Discover the diversity of Chinese cinnamon sticks

Now let’s dive into characteristics and some ways to incorporate China cinnamon sticks into your diet. 

Exploring the Unique Flavour Profile of Chinese Cinnamon Sticks

Chinese cinnamon is a well-liked spice in many different cuisines, especially Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cooking because of its potent aroma and flavor. Both savory and sweet meals gain richness and depth as a result, which improves the overall flavor profile. Chinese cinnamon adds a rich and aromatic flavor to braised meats, stews, and curries.

Chinese cinnamon is utilized in traditional Chinese medicine in addition to being used in cooking due to its alleged health advantages. It is thought to possess warming characteristics that might enhance blood circulation, facilitate digestion, and lessen symptoms associated with colds.

Chinese cinnamon sticks have a distinctive flavor profile with strong, bright overtones that lend a distinctive, alluring touch to food, making them a cherished ingredient in many culinary traditions.

Top 5 Chinese Cinnamon Stick Recipes to Try at Home

These recipes showcase the versatility of Chinese cinnamon sticks, allowing you to explore its unique flavor in various culinary creations.

1. Braised Pork Belly with Chinese Cinnamon Sticks: Marinate pork belly slices with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a couple of Chinese cinnamon sticks. Sear the pork, then add water, star anise, and simmer until tender. The Chinese cinnamon imparts a fragrant and earthy flavor to the dish.
2. Chinese Cinnamon and Orange Tea: In a pot, combine water, Chinese cinnamon sticks, orange peel, and a touch of honey. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy the aromatic and soothing tea that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the citrusy zest of orange.
3. Chinese Cinnamon-Spiced Beef Noodle Soup: Prepare a flavorful broth by simmering beef bones, Chinese cinnamon sticks, star anise, ginger, and garlic. Cook beef slices separately and boil noodles. Combine the broth, beef, noodles, and garnish with fresh herbs, creating a hearty and aromatic soup.
4. Chinese Cinnamon and Apple Compote: Simmer sliced apples, sugar, water, and Chinese cinnamon sticks in a saucepan until the apples are soft and the mixture has thickened. Remove the cinnamon sticks and serve the compote warm or cold as a delightful dessert or a topping for pancakes and ice cream.
5. Five-Spice Roasted Chicken with Chinese Cinnamon: Combine Chinese cinnamon powder with other traditional five-spice blend ingredients such as star anise, cloves, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. Rub the mixture onto a whole chicken and roast it until golden and flavorful, infusing the meat with a delightful aroma.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Using Chinese Cinnamon Sticks

Remember, Chinese cinnamon sticks have a stronger and more intense flavor compared to other cinnamon varieties, so use them judiciously to avoid overpowering your dishes.

• Chinese cinnamon sticks of the highest caliber should be tightly wrapped, fragrant, and reddish-brown in color. The greatest flavor is ensured by freshness.
• The flavor of the cinnamon sticks may be improved by toasting them, which is optional. The sticks are added to a dry skillet that has been preheated over medium heat. They should be fragrant after being toasted for a few minutes, occasionally flipping them. Please take care not to burn them.
• Chinese cinnamon sticks are frequently used intact in cooking. To impart their flavor, they can be added to foods that are braised, simmering soups, or stews. The sticks can be added to the pot and cooked alongside the other ingredients.
• When your meal has finished cooking, take out the cinnamon sticks before serving. Because of their firm texture and potent flavor, they are normally not intended to be consumed whole.
• Grinding the sticks: You can ground the cinnamon sticks into a powder if you want a smoother, more uniformly flavored cinnamon flavor. To turn them into a fine powder, use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. You can add freshly ground cinnamon powder to baked products, sweets, or spice mixtures.
• Maintaining the freshness of the cinnamon sticks through proper storage is important. Keep them away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry area in an airtight container. This will guarantee that they keep their flavor and aroma for a long time.