Most people are familiar with cinnamon in its powdered form, which is often used to flavor desserts or add a bit of spice to savory dishes. However, cinnamon also comes in the form of sticks, which are the whole bark of the cinnamon tree that has been dried and rolled up. Can you grind up cinnamon sticks?
Yes, you can grind up cinnamon sticks.
This is a common practice, as it allows you to create your own cinnamon powder. Ground cinnamon can be used in many recipes, and it also has a number of health benefits. Cinnamon sticks are relatively easy to grind, and the results can be used in many different ways. If you want to grind your own cinnamon sticks, all you need is a coffee grinder or a food processor. Simply add the cinnamon sticks to the grinder and blend until they are reduced to a fine powder. You can then use this powder in any recipe that calls for ground cinnamon.
How do you grind up cinnamon sticks?
If you want to grind up cinnamon sticks, there are two main ways to do it – manually or using an electrical or mechanical device.
To grind cinnamon sticks manually, you can use a mortar and pestle, coffee grinder, or even a sharp knife.
Microplane zester
Microplane zesters are a handy kitchen tool that can be used for grating spices like cinnamon. To use one, simply place a cinnamon stick on the zester and hold it at a 45 degree angle. Use a back and forth motion to grate the cinnamon into a fine powder. You can then use this powder to add flavor to your favorite recipes. Zesters are also great for grating other spices like nutmeg and cloves.
Ziploc bag and meat tenderizer
Ziploc bag and meat tenderizer can be used for grinding cinnamon sticks. First, place the cinnamon sticks in the Ziploc bag. Then, use the meat tenderizer to grind the cinnamon sticks into a powder. Finally, sprinkle the cinnamon powder on your favorite food or drink. Enjoy!
Mortar and pestle
This is probably the most traditional method for grinding spices. If you want to go this route, first break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces and then add them to the mortar. Use the pestle to grind the cinnamon until it reaches the desired consistency.
This can be a labor-intensive process, so if you want a faster method you can use an electrical or mechanical grinder. These devices will quickly reduce the cinnamon sticks to a fine powder that can be used for baking or other purposes.
High-Speed Blender
A high-speed blender is a great tool for grinding cinnamon sticks. The blades on a high-speed blender are powerful enough to break down the tough Cinnamon bark. Add a few cinnamon sticks to your blender, along with some water. Blend on high until the cinnamon is ground into a fine powder. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times. Once the Cinnamon is ground, you can use it in recipes or sprinkle it over your favorite foods.
Spice grinder/coffee grinder
A spice grinder or a coffee grinder can be used to grind cinnamon sticks. First, break the cinnamon stick into smaller pieces so that it will fit into the grinder. Then, put the cinnamon pieces into the grinder and pulse until they are ground into a powder. Be sure to pulse the grinder rather than running it continuously, as this will prevent the cinnamon from overheating and becoming bitter. Once the cinnamon is ground, sift it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any large pieces. Store the ground cinnamon in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Food processor
When it comes to grinding cinnamon sticks, a food processor is a great tool to have in the kitchen. Not only does it make the process quick and easy, but it also allows for a more uniform grind. Simply add the cinnamon sticks to the food processor and pulse until they reach the desired consistency. If you find that the blades are having difficulty cutting through the sticks, you can add a little water to help them along.
Tips for grinding cinnamon sticks
-If you’re using a manual method, make sure to break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces before trying to grind them. This will make the process much easier.
-If you’re using an electrical or mechanical device, start with just a few sticks at a time. This will help prevent the cinnamon from overheating and becoming bitter.
-Once the cinnamon is ground, sift it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any large pieces.
-Store the ground cinnamon in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. This will help it retain its flavor and potency.
What are the benefits of grinding up cinnamon sticks?
There are a number of benefits to grinding up cinnamon sticks. First of all, it allows you to create your own cinnamon powder, which can be used in many different recipes. Ground cinnamon also has a number of health benefits. Cinnamon is known to help regulate blood sugar levels, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. It can also be used as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory infections.
If you want to reap the benefits of cinnamon, grinding up your own cinnamon sticks is a great way to do it. Not only will you get all of the nutritional benefits, but you’ll also be able to use the powder in any recipe that calls for ground cinnamon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cinnamon sticks can be ground up and used in many different recipes. They can add flavor and spice to sweet dishes, savory dishes, and even beverages. If you want to add a little something extra to your meal, consider grinding up some cinnamon sticks. You may be surprised at how much flavor they can add.
