Cinnamon is one of the most cherished spices in the world. Less well known is the fragrant variety grown in India's northeastern state of Meghalaya. Often overshadowed by cinnamon from Sri Lanka or Indonesia, it is the spice behind our Aromatic 3Hills Cinnamon. Here is what makes it distinct, how it compares with other types, and how to cook with it.
What Is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is a spice made from the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus. It is used in sweet and savory dishes, teas, and baking all over the world. The main types you will see are:
- Ceylon cinnamon (often called true cinnamon): delicate, light, and subtly sweet
- Cassia cinnamon: the common grocery-store type, with a strong, sharp, spicy flavor
- Saigon cinnamon: intensely spicy-sweet
- Korintje cinnamon: mild and sweet, widely used in baking
Meghalaya cinnamon is a distinct addition to this list.
The 3Hills Variety From Meghalaya
Our Aromatic 3Hills Cinnamon is named for the three hill regions of Meghalaya where it grows: the East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, and Jaintia Hills. It is a single-origin ground cinnamon.
What to expect:
- A rich, complex aroma with an earthy, floral undertone
- A thin, soft bark that grinds easily
- A flavor slightly spicier than Ceylon but rounder than common cassia
How to Cook with Meghalaya Cinnamon
Use it like any other cinnamon, with a little extra aroma and depth:
- In teas and warm drinks
- In cookies, cakes, and cinnamon rolls
- In curries and masalas
- In stews, soups, and rice dishes
- In spice blends like our Golden Immunity Medley
Pairing tip: Try it with Natural Makhir Ginger or Warm Wild Long Pepper in tea, golden milk, or oatmeal for a warm, layered flavor. See our golden milk recipe for an easy start.
Where to Buy Meghalaya Cinnamon
You can buy it from us: Aromatic 3Hills Cinnamon, a ground spice from Meghalaya. For an easy way to try several of our spices, explore our gifting collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is Meghalaya cinnamon different from regular cinnamon?
Regular cinnamon usually means cassia or Ceylon. Meghalaya cinnamon is a high-altitude Indian variety with a rich aroma and a flavor that sits between the two.
2. How do I use it in cooking?
Use it like regular cinnamon in teas, curries, baking, and spice blends. Its flavor is nuanced, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
3. Is it good for baking?
Yes. Its rounded sweetness and aroma work well in cakes, cookies, and breads.
4. Where does Aromatic 3Hills Cinnamon come from?
It is a single-origin spice from the East Khasi, West Khasi, and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, and most of our spices come direct from the farmer.
Final Thoughts
Meghalaya cinnamon is more than a baking spice. It brings a rich, floral aroma and a rounded warmth to everyday cooking. Try Aromatic 3Hills Cinnamon in your next cup of tea or batch of baking.
