What are the different types of cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the bark of various cinnamon tree species. While all cinnamon comes from the same family of trees, there are several commonly known types of cinnamon, each with unique characteristics and flavors:

1. Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum):

- Also known as "true cinnamon" or "real cinnamon," Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka.

- It is considered the highest quality cinnamon and is favored for its delicate, sweet, and slightly fruity flavor.

- Ceylon cinnamon is light brown in color and has a thinner bark compared to other varieties.

2. Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum aromaticum):

- Cassia cinnamon is the most common type of cinnamon found in supermarkets.

- It is native to China and Indonesia.

- Cassia cinnamon has a stronger, pungent, and slightly spicy flavor compared to Ceylon cinnamon.

- It is darker brown in color and has a thicker, coarser bark.

3. Korintje Cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii):

- Korintje cinnamon is native to Indonesia, especially the region around the city of Padang.

- It is known for its distinct spicy, bittersweet flavor and intense aroma.

- Korintje cinnamon is darker in color and has a thicker bark similar to Cassia cinnamon.

4. Saigon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum loureiroi):

- Also known as Vietnamese cinnamon, Saigon cinnamon originates from Vietnam.

- It has a strong, pungent, and slightly bitter flavor.

- Saigon cinnamon is medium brown in color with a thick bark.

5. Ceylon Cinnamon Quill:

- Ceylon cinnamon quills are made by rolling together thin strips of Ceylon cinnamon bark.

- They have a delicate and sweet flavor, similar to ground Ceylon cinnamon.

6. Indonesian Cinnamon:

- Indonesian cinnamon refers to various species of cinnamon native to Indonesia, such as Manado or Padang Cassia.

- They can vary in flavor and appearance but generally have a strong and spicy taste.

7. Chinese Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia):

- Chinese cinnamon, also known as "Rou Gui," is a type of Cassia cinnamon native to China.

- It has a strong and pungent flavor, similar to Cassia cinnamon.

It's important to note that the different types of cinnamon may also have variations within their respective regions, leading to slight differences in taste and aroma.