A Little About Cinnamon

So now I'm on a spice kick or should I say all things that flavor. Herbs, butters, vanillas, spices.

This was in a "Ask Martha" news clip from Detroit



You might be surprised to learn that the reddish, woody, aromatic spice you sprinkle on toast and use to flavor dishes such as applesauce and pumpkin pie most likely isn't true cinnamon at all. In the United States, most products sold as cinnamon are actually cassia.
True cinnamon and cassia are cousins; both are made of the dried bark of species of Cinnamomum evergreen trees. Cassia originated in the country now called Myanmar. There are three distinct types available today: Indonesian cassia -- the familiar kind mass-produced as cinnamon for the North American market; Chinese cassia -- a rarer version that is both sweeter and more peppery and is ideal for baked goods; and Vietnamese cassia -- a type only recently available in North America, with an intense flavor and aroma (only about two-thirds the amount of cinnamon called for in recipes is necessary with this variety).
All cassia is a dark, reddish brown and has a stronger, somewhat harsher flavor than its cousin, true, or Ceylon, cinnamon. True cinnamon originated from Sri Lanka. It has a paler tan color, a softer, more crumbly texture and a more delicate flavor than cassia. It also contains a chemical compound called eugenol, the same one that gives cloves their distinctive aroma, which makes it more fragrant.


This reminded me of the movie "Chocolate"

Mexican Hot Chocolate
Mexican chocolate is flavored with Ceylon cinnamon, almonds and vanilla. It is available in Mexican markets and some supermarkets.
1 quart milk
2 3-inch cinnamon sticks
10 ounces Ibarra or other Mexican chocolate, finely chopped
Whipped cream, for serving
Pinch of ground cinnamon, for serving
Place the milk and the cinnamon sticks in a heavy medium saucepan. Bring just to a boil, reduce heat and add chocolate. Let the mixture stand until the chocolate melts, about 3 minutes. Whisk until combined.
Serve immediately, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Makes 6-8 servings. 

Ms. Foodie