JournalNow.com: Veggin' Out

Contrary to a popular stereotype, vegetarians are not all champions of self-denial, pathetically munching a sprout on the sidelines while watching the omnivores have all the culinary fun. Instead, the vegetarians we know love good food and know where to get it. They aren't about to settle for a bland meal, either at home or at a restaurant.

Agave nectar

One of my new favorite things is agave nectar. This liquid sweetener is made from the agave plant and has a low glycemic index, which means that it’s great for diabetics or anyone who is concerned about their blood-sugar levels. It isn’t processed with chemicals, and since it’s sweeter than sugar, you don’t need to use as much.

I’ve found that it tastes very similar to honey, although with a milder, more neutral flavor. I drink a lot of tea, and I usually use honey to sweeten it. However, with delicate green teas, I often find that the flavor of the honey overpowers the flavor of the tea. When I use light agave nectar instead, the flavor of the tea comes through more. Plus, it blends in easier, and since it’s made from a plant, it’s suitable for vegans who don’t use honey.

I haven’t used agave nectar in baking or cooking, but it’s supposed to be a fine substitute for sugar in that, too. You can read more about agave at AllAboutAgave.com.

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By Cassandra Sherrill on 12/21/2007 (1:46 pm)

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