Whole cloves are shaped like a small, reddish-brown spike, usually around 1 centimeter in length, with a bulbous top. Cloves can be used whole or ground, and they have a very strong, pungent flavor and aroma.
Whole cloves are either removed before serving or picked out of the dish. Even when cooked, whole cloves have a very hard, woody texture that would be unpleasant to bite into.
Cloves also feature in any number of desserts, especially ground cloves and particularly around the holidays. Think eggnog or pumpkin pie spice.
Marie van Dyk (verified owner) –
Fantadtic