Delicious ways to enjoy sweet carob
What's the story
Often overshadowed by chocolate, carob offers a unique sweetness and versatility that can be explored in various culinary applications. Unlike chocolate, carob is naturally caffeine-free and contains less fat, making it an appealing alternative for those seeking different flavors or dietary options. Here are 5 surprising ways to enjoy sweet carob beyond the traditional chocolate bar format, in both sweet and savory dishes.
Tip 1
Carob smoothies for a nutritious boost
Carob powder can make a delightful addition to smoothies. Its natural sweetness goes perfectly with fruits like bananas and berries. Just blend one tablespoon of carob powder with your choice of fruit, a cup of milk or plant-based milk, and some ice cubes for a refreshing drink. The result: a creamy smoothie that'll energize you without the caffeine kick of cocoa-based drinks.
Tip 2
Baking with carob: A sweet alternative
In baking, you can use carob instead of cocoa powder or chocolate chips in recipes for cookies or muffins. It adds a unique flavor which is a tad nutty and sweet. To use carob in baking, simply substitute an equal amount of carob powder for cocoa powder or use carob chips instead of chocolate chips. This swap not only alters the flavor but also cuts down on the total fat content of your bakes.
Tip 3
Carob syrup as a natural sweetener
Carob syrup makes a great natural sweetener for pancakes, waffles or yogurt toppings. Prepared by boiling down carob pods into a thick liquid form (like molasses), it gives a rich flavor profile without added sugars. Drizzle it over breakfast items or mix it into yogurt for an added layer of sweetness that'll complement, not overpower, other ingredients.
Tip 4
Savory dishes enhanced with carob powder
While mainly used for sweets, carob can also add a touch to savory dishes such as stews or sauces. Adding one teaspoon of carob powder to tomato-based sauces adds depth and complexity, similar to the way you would add a fine ingredient but without any content that could be inappropriate for all audiences. It balances acidity and adds subtle sweetness to your dish's overall flavor.