I use many different unrefined sugars in my baking, and Agave syrup is one of them. Here is all you need to know about it!
Agave syrup, also called Agave nectar is derived from the agave plant (pictured above), native to South America and mexico. It has been used for decades of the native people in South America and Mexico as a sweetener, wound healing and treating other health conditiones.
Quick facts about Agave Syrup
Agave syrup has a low GI, but holds a high content of fructose. Fructose is metabolized in the liver and turned directly into fat, and hence raises triglycerides and cholesterol. That means that a very high intake of fructose is not recommended because of its adverse effects of the liver. But you can use Agave syrup in small amounts for example in baking. Especially since it is 1.5. times sweeter than sugar.
For an overview of Agave syrup compared to the other natural sugars check out the post “All you need to know about natural sugar”.
Sweetness
It is 1.5 times sweeter than white sugar, and also sweeter than honey.
How to use
There are two types: one dark unrefined and one lighter refined. The lighter one has a neutral and delicate flavour and is more suitable for baking, and also for coffee, tea and other drinks. In baking it gives the products more moisture and keeps them longer soft and fresh. In food and baking replace white sugar by the relationship ca. 1:0.65. Store the agave syrup in a cool, dry and dark place.
Nutrition facts
It consists of mainly fructose. But it varies from 56-92% fructose and 8-20% glucose. It has a 0% of protein, and has a low content of minerals. The sap from Agave plants are used to aid healing in folk medicine, it holds anti- inflammatory properties and inhibits the growth of pyogenic and enteric bacteria.
Vegan and raw friendly agave syrup
Vegans can replace honey with agave syrup as this is a completely plant- derived product. If you are eating raw make sure to read the label as the pure and organic agave syrups are raw, whereas the processed ones are not.
Where to get it
If you can’t find it in your local health store, or you live on the countryside you can always get Agave syrup online. Worldwide you can buy organic Agave syrup here and raw organic Agave syrup here (use code GOP133 to get 10 dollars of your first buy). Or buy it on Vitacost (use the link https://www.vitacostrewards.com/jdHckjY to get 10 dollars of your order). In Norway you can buy organic Agave syrup online here or raw organic Agave syrup here.