Warming and fragrant, cinnamon is one of the world's oldest known spices. In the US, its scent is so associated with comfort, that home sellers are advised to bake something with cinnamon during open houses. Americans and Europeans use cinnamon most often in sweets, baked goods, teas, hot cocoa and coffees. But in India, North Africa, the Mediterranean, the Middle East and Caribbean regions, cinnamon is used in savory dishes as well.

Experiment with cinnamon in vegetables, stews, soups and rice dishes. Also, be aware that in the US, bottles labeled cinnamon may actually contain a similarly-flavored spice called cassia. True cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka, so look for bottles labeled "Ceylon Cinnamon."