Vietnamese Cinnamon Sticks

Vietnamese cinnamon sticks, also known as Saigon cinnamon, are a versatile spice with a strong, spicy-sweet flavor, used in both culinary and medicinal applications. They can be added to a wide range of dishes like curries, stews, and baked goods, as well as beverages such as coffee and tea, to impart warmth and depth. Their uses also include health benefits, such as providing antioxidants and potentially helping to manage blood sugar and reduce inflammation.  

Culinary uses

Baking:

Use in cookies, cakes, and breads. Their potency may mean you need less than other cinnamon types. 

Savory dishes:

Add to stews, curries, and roasted meats to add depth of flavor. 

Beverages:

Infuse in coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Add to a vodka for flavor infusion or to water when cooking grains like rice or quinoa. 

Confections and sauces:

Use in syrups, jams, and sauces. Make cinnamon sugar by combining it with sugar; use half as much as you would with regular cinnamon. 

Meat tenderizer:

Mix with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, as the high cinnamaldehyde content can break down proteins. 

Health uses

Antioxidants:

Vietnamese cinnamon is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals and can help prevent oxidative cell damage. 

Inflammation:

Compounds in the cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help with conditions like heart disease and diabetes. 

Blood sugar:

It may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance, though more research is needed. 

Digestive health:

Can be used to treat digestive problems. 

Antimicrobial properties:

Studies show that cinnamon can be effective against certain bacteria and fungi. 

Other uses

Crafts and decor: Use whole sticks for crafts, potpourri, or holiday decorations.