Clove

Why Are Cloves an Essential South Asian Spice?

Cloves have been used in South Asian cooking for thousands of years — and for good reason. Their intense, warm, slightly sweet aroma adds incredible depth to biryanis, curries, stews, and spice blends. Just a few whole cloves added to hot oil at the beginning of a recipe can transform an entire dish.

In Indian cooking, cloves are a key component of garam masala and biryani masala. In Sri Lankan cuisine, they are used in rich coconut curries and the famous Sri Lankan black pork curry. Pakistani cooking features cloves heavily in kormas, qormas, and slow-cooked meat dishes. Cloves are also used in desserts, chai, and traditional Ayurvedic preparations.

• Whole Dried Cloves — Perfect for tempering in oil or ghee, slow-cooked biryanis, and masala chai. Strong aroma and long shelf life.
• Ground Clove Powder — Ideal for spice blends, baking, and recipes where you want the flavour without whole pieces.
• Multiple Pack Sizes — From small household packs to bulk quantities for restaurants and large families.

How to Use Cloves in South Asian Cooking

When a recipe calls for tempering whole spices, cloves are almost always part of the mix — alongside cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper. Add them to hot oil or ghee first, letting them sizzle for 30–60 seconds until fragrant before adding onions, garlic, or ginger.

For masala chai, add 2–3 whole cloves along with cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon to simmering milk for a warming, aromatic brew. Cloves also pair beautifully with black pepper in dry rubs and marinades for grilled meats.

Ground clove powder is particularly useful when making homemade garam masala, biryani masala, or keema. Use it sparingly — cloves are potent and a little goes a long way.

Whether you're cooking an elaborate biryani or a simple dal tadka, quality dried cloves from Velspices will elevate your cooking from good to extraordinary.

Buy dried cloves online at Velspices — delivered fresh, packed with aroma, and shipped anywhere in Australia. Free delivery over $50 in Melbourne metro.