5 fruit-based sweeteners to try today
What's the story
Fruit-based sweeteners are taking the vegetarian cooking world by storm, and for good reasons. Not only are they natural but also healthier than refined sugars. They make a healthier substitute for refined sugars, and add so much more to your diet. They do not just enhance taste but also add nutrients. Here are five fruit-based sweeteners that are revolutionizing vegetarian cooking.
Date syrup
Date syrup: A natural sweetener
Derived from dates, date syrup has a rich, caramel-like flavor. It is packed with essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, making it a healthy option for sweetening dishes. In vegetarian cooking, you can use date syrup for baking or as a topping for pancakes and oatmeal. Its thick consistency makes it the perfect choice for enhancing sauces and dressings.
Coconut sugar
Coconut sugar: A low-glycemic option
Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. Made from the sap of coconut palm trees, it causes a slower spike in blood sugar levels, making it ideal for those monitoring their intake of glucose. With its subtle caramel taste, coconut sugar can be used in baking or even sprinkled over cereals and desserts.
Apple sauce
Apple sauce: A versatile ingredient
Apple sauce doubles as a sweetener and a moisture-adding ingredient for baked goods. Prepared by cooking apples until they become soft, apple sauce preserves the fruit's natural sweetness without any added sugars. It can substitute some or all of the fat content in recipes such as muffins or cakes, while adding flavor with its subtle apple taste.
Agave nectar
Agave nectar: A vegan's favorite
Extracted from the agave plant, agave nectar is a favorite among vegans because it comes from a plant. Since it contains more fructose than regular sugar, it is sweeter, which is why you need a lesser quantity while substituting it. Agave nectar works perfectly in drinks like smoothies or teas, owing to its liquid form.
Raisin paste
Raisin paste: An unconventional sweetener
Raisin paste provides an unusual but effective means to source sweetness naturally from dried grapes without any additives or preservatives involved at any stage of processing whatsoever. Its thick consistency makes this paste ideal not just when added to baked goods but also when incorporated into smoothies where extra fiber content comes in handy, too.