Ground Clove

Ground clove is a highly aromatic spice made from dried flower buds of the clove tree, native to Indonesia. It has a warm, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor with notes of bitterness and a distinctive pungency. Ground clove is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding depth to baked goods like gingerbread, pumpkin pie, and spice cakes, as well as to savory recipes such as curries, stews, and marinades. Its intense flavor means a little goes a long way, so it’s typically used in small quantities. Besides enhancing taste, ground clove is also valued for its aromatic qualities, contributing a rich, comforting scent to any dish it graces.

Ground clove is typically found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, where it is stocked alongside other dried herbs and spices. Look for small glass or plastic jars labeled "Ground Clove" or simply "Cloves (Ground)" on the shelves with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger. This section is often located near the baking supplies, so if you’re also picking up ingredients like baking powder, vanilla extract, or sugar, you’re likely in the right area. In some larger supermarkets, the spice aisle may be divided by region or cuisine, but ground clove will still be with the general spices. If you have trouble locating it, don’t hesitate to ask a store employee for assistance, as the spice section can sometimes be extensive. Ground clove may also be available in bulk bins or specialty spice displays in certain stores, especially those that carry a wide variety of international ingredients.