Cinnamon is a versatile warming culinary spice important in making curry, drinks, baked goods, and candy. There are actually two main types of Cinnamon; Cassia family which is commonly found in NA and includes Saigon or Vietnamese Cinnamon; and the more exotic and sought after Ceylon Cinnamon. What sets Ceylon Cinnamon apart is it is fully digestible and along with its sweet and citrusy flavour, Ceylon cinnamon is full of antioxidants, which may help your body lower risk of health conditions like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Containing Vitamin A, Manganese and Beta-carotene to name a few, adding even ½ tsp of Ceylon cinnamon daily to your diet such as smoothies, hot drinks, oatmeal or cereal can produce positive effects and will elevate the flavour of anything you add this warm spice to! Ceylon can also be known as True or Mexican Cinnamon. Cinnamon is grown in several countries around the world with the majority of Ceylon cinnamon originiating from Sri-Lanka.
How to tell Ceylon Cinnamon apart from Cassia? Ceylon cinnamon sticks have a distinctly layered and feathery appearance making them very brittle and easy to crumble. Cassia sticks have a singular thick layer of bark and are quite robust and hard to break. Cassia Cinnamon tends to be darker than Ceylon Ceylon cinnamon in either powder or whole form. Pepper Tree Spice Co. carries Ceylon, Cassia and Saigon or Vietnamese Cinnamon.