15 Vietnamese Recipe Saigon Cinnamon You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 19, 2024
Saigon cinnamon, also known as Vietnamese cinnamon, is a popular spice used in both sweet and savory dishes. This aromatic spice is derived from the bark of Cinnamomum loureiroi, a tree native to Southeast Asia. Its unique flavor and fragrance have made it a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and it has gained popularity worldwide for its numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the history, uses, and benefits of Saigon cinnamon, as well as share a delicious Vietnamese recipe that showcases its flavor.
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Canola Oil, Coriander, Chiles De Arbol
If you love the bold flavors of Indian cuisine, then this Chicken Biryani spiced with Saigon cinnamon is a must-try dish! The warm and earthy notes of the Saigon cinnamon perfectly complement the fragrant basmati rice and tender chicken pieces. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
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Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Packed Brown Sugar, White Sugar, Eggs
Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies? These Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect balance of indulgent and nutritious. Packed with oats, carrots, and a hint of Saigon cinnamon, these cookies are a delicious and filling treat for any time of day.
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Saigon Cinnamon Ginger Cookies
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Baking Powder, Saigon Cinnamon, Ground
If you're a fan of gingerbread cookies, then you'll love these Saigon cinnamon ginger cookies. The combination of warm spices like Saigon cinnamon, ginger, and cloves give these cookies a delicious kick of flavor. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you're craving a sweet and spicy treat.
Warm up on a chilly day with a bowl of Pho Ga, also known as Vietnamese chicken noodle soup. This flavorful broth is made with a variety of herbs and spices, including Saigon cinnamon, which adds a unique depth of flavor. Top it off with tender chicken and rice noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Saigon Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, White Sugar, Eggs, Spice Islands Pure
Start your day off right with a slice of this Saigon cinnamon streusel coffee cake. The rich and buttery cake is layered with a sweet and crunchy cinnamon streusel, and the addition of Saigon cinnamon gives it a warm and comforting flavor. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
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Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts
Main Ingredients: Baking Spray, Butter, Flour, All Purpose Flour
Who says you have to go to a bakery to enjoy delicious donuts? These cinnamon sugar baked donuts are easy to make at home and are a healthier alternative to fried donuts. The addition of Saigon cinnamon in the batter and the cinnamon sugar topping make these donuts irresistible.
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Canela
If you're a fan of sweet potato casserole, then you need to try these cupcakes! The moist and flavorful cupcakes are topped with a homemade marshmallow frosting, and a sprinkle of Saigon cinnamon adds a delicious twist. These cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any fall gathering.
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Pumpkin Streusel Muffins with Cream Cheese
Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Brown Sugar, Baking Soda, Baking Powder
Satisfy your pumpkin cravings with these delicious pumpkin streusel muffins. The warm and aromatic flavors of Saigon cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make these muffins irresistible, and the cream cheese filling adds a creamy and tangy element. Perfect for a fall breakfast or snack.
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Peanut Butter Banana Muffins with Peanut Butter...
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Light Brown Sugar, Large Eggs, Greek
If you love the combination of peanut butter and banana, then these muffins are a must-try. The addition of Saigon cinnamon in the streusel topping adds a subtle warmth and complements the flavors of the peanut butter and banana. These muffins are a delicious and filling breakfast option.
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Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Cookies
Main Ingredients: Crisco All Vegetable Shortening, Granulated Sugar
For all the cookie lovers out there, these soft and chewy cinnamon cookies are a must-try. The addition of Saigon cinnamon in the dough gives these cookies a warm and comforting flavor, and the soft and chewy texture is irresistible. These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or any time you're craving a delicious treat.
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Cinnamon Banana Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Light Brown Sugar, Baking Powder
Banana bread meets cupcakes in these delicious Cinnamon Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. The addition of Saigon cinnamon in the batter adds a subtle warmth, and the tangy cream cheese frosting balances out the sweetness of the banana. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion.
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Pastilla
Main Ingredients: Clarified Butter, Slivered Almonds, Granulated Sugar
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful dish to impress your guests, then try making Pastilla. This Moroccan dish features layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a savory and aromatic chicken filling, which is spiced with Saigon cinnamon, ginger, and other warm spices. It's a delicious and impressive dish that will leave your guests wanting more.
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Banana Whiskey Cupcakes
Main Ingredients: Cake Mix, Eggs, Bananas, Oil, Water, Baking Soda
Take your cupcakes to the next level with these Banana Whiskey Cupcakes. The addition of Saigon cinnamon and whiskey in the batter adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor, and the creamy whiskey frosting is the perfect finishing touch. These cupcakes are a delicious and unique dessert option.
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Apple Pull Apart Bread with Caramel Drizzle
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Water, Butter, Honey, Flour, Yeast, Salt
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that's easy to make? Look no further than this Apple Pull Apart Bread with Caramel Drizzle. The warm and comforting flavors of Saigon cinnamon and apples make this bread irresistible, and the sweet caramel drizzle takes it to the next level.
Main Ingredients: Challah Bread, 2 Milk, Cream, Pumpkin Puree, Eggs
Bread pudding gets a fall-inspired upgrade with this easy pumpkin spice version. The addition of Saigon cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger adds a delicious warmth to the dish, and the maple bourbon sauce takes it to the next level. This dessert is perfect for a cozy night in.
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Toasted Pecan Pumpkin Cupcakes Maple Caramel Cream...
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Cinnamon, Nutmeg
These Toasted Pecan Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting are a fall dessert dream come true. The warm and aromatic flavors of Saigon cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger perfectly complement the pumpkin and pecan flavors. The maple caramel cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch.
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Pear Pecan Snack Cake with Cinnamon Drizzle
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Argo Corn Starch, Argo Baking
This Pear Pecan Snack Cake is a delicious and easy dessert option for any occasion. The combination of pears, pecans, and Saigon cinnamon creates a warm and comforting flavor, and the cinnamon drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Pumpkin Marcona Almond Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone...
Main Ingredients: Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Saigon Cinnamon
If you're looking for a unique and decadent dessert, then this Pumpkin Marcona Almond Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting is a must-try. The rich and nutty flavors of the Marcona almonds are complemented by the warm and aromatic Saigon cinnamon in the cake. The cinnamon mascarpone frosting adds a creamy and tangy element that takes this cake to the next level.
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Cinnamon Pear Coffee Cake
Main Ingredients: Dough, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Fleischmann S
This Cinnamon Pear Coffee Cake is the perfect treat for a cozy morning. The combination of pears, Saigon cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a delicious and comforting flavor, and the crumb topping adds a nice crunch. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious and satisfying breakfast.
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Sweet Potato Casserole Cupcakes
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Canela
If you love the classic sweet potato casserole, then you'll love these cupcakes! The moist and flavorful cupcakes are topped with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting, and a sprinkle of Saigon cinnamon adds a warm and delicious touch. These cupcakes are perfect for any fall gathering or holiday celebration.
History of Saigon Cinnamon
Saigon cinnamon has been used in Vietnamese cooking for centuries, and its use can be traced back to ancient times. This spice was highly valued by the Chinese who traded it along the Silk Road, and it was often used as a currency. It gained popularity in Europe during the 16th century, and it was known as "Cassia lignea" in Latin. In the 19th century, it was given the name "Saigon cinnamon" as it was primarily exported from the city of Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City.
Uses in Vietnamese Cuisine
Saigon cinnamon is a key ingredient in many traditional Vietnamese dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), bánh mì (sandwich), and bánh xèo (savory crepe). Its warm and sweet flavor adds depth and complexity to these dishes, making them stand out in flavor and aroma. It is also commonly used in marinades, rubs, and sauces for meats, giving them a mouthwatering taste. In desserts, Saigon cinnamon is often paired with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, creating a delicious balance of sweetness and spice.
Health Benefits of Saigon Cinnamon
Aside from its culinary uses, Saigon cinnamon is also known for its numerous health benefits. Its high levels of cinnamaldehyde, the compound responsible for its distinct flavor, have been linked to reducing inflammation and lowering blood sugar levels. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radical damage. Furthermore, studies have shown that Saigon cinnamon has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an effective natural remedy for colds and infections.
Recipe: Vietnamese Cinnamon Chicken
Now that you know about the history and uses of Saigon cinnamon, it's time to try out a delicious Vietnamese recipe that showcases its flavor. This Vietnamese cinnamon chicken dish is easy to make and bursting with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Saigon cinnamon
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, Saigon cinnamon, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, sesame oil, and black pepper.
Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Flip the chicken and place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with some extra Saigon cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.
In conclusion, Saigon cinnamon is a versatile spice that adds a unique flavor and aroma to Vietnamese cuisine. Its rich history, culinary uses, and health benefits make it a must-have in any kitchen. Try out this Vietnamese cinnamon chicken recipe and experience the warmth and complexity of Saigon cinnamon for yourself.
