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The history of cinnamon dates back to 2,800 BC where it was used for it
ability to preserve meat from bacterial spoilage and as part of the
embalming process.
In ancient times cinnamon was a very valuable
commodity
worth more than silver or gold, had wars fought over it, and was used
for
its medicinal properties.
It has been an important trading commodity throughout the ages via the
spice
road of China and the spice markets in Istanbul and also helped
encourage
the spice traders who opened up the new world through their
explorations.
It was a sign of high social status in Europe to offer spice to your
guests
to create an air of mystery and excitement from the exotic East.
Cinnamon these days is often mixed with or substituted by its' close
cousin
Cassia. Most cinnamon is grown in Sri Lanka and the characteristic
sticks
are created by striping the bark from young branches. Ground cinnamon is
produced from grinding the older bark.
Cinnamon is used to flavour sweet and savoury dishes and is an important
component of curries and the middle eastern spice mix, Baharat.
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