If a recipe contains corn syrup you know that it is not going to be the healthiest food option. While corn syrup is a tasty addition for the occasional agave nectar substitute cocktail, it should only be consumed in small quantities. What is a healthy substitute for corn syrup? Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
Nowadays, you can still find corn syrup used in many typical beverages and foods. The substance is routinely used to make the texture of certain foods softer or thicker for additional volume. It’s often used as a preservative or humectant since it holds moisture and helps keep food fresh. It does not have a particular flavor, similar to sugar. If you are looking for a substitute for corn syrup, you will be happy to know that there are a wide variety of different options to choose from.
While some of these options are healthier than corn syrup, others contain just as much sugar. Some work better for certain recipes than others. In this article, we have compiled a list of these different options for you to choose from. Before we get on to the different types of substitutes, it is useful for you to know what corn syrup is. This will help you to choose the best alternative for you. Corn syrup is a syrup that is made from corn starch.
It is more commonly known as glucose syrup. It is mainly used in foods to add sweetness, and to improve the overall flavor. It stops sugar from crystallizing, and it softens the texture of the food or drink. High-fructose corn syrup is far unhealthier due to how our bodies process it. While corn syrup in general is still full of sugar, it is slightly better than HFCS, though it should also be consumed in moderation. Given that corn syrup is a runny syrup, when you are choosing an alternative for it, you will want to choose an ingredient with a similar consistency. When it comes to corn syrup substitutes, honey is a popular substitute, especially if you are looking for a healthier option.
While honey still does contain high amounts of sugar, it is far less in comparison to corn syrup. In addition to this, the sugars are natural, rather than refined, which is better for you overall. The ratio you will need to use is 1:1. While honey does help to prevent crystallization, it does not prevent it as successfully as corn syrup.
Given this, some crystallization may occur, and this may not be the best option for creating candy or a glaze. It is a brilliant alternative if you are making baked goods however. It will help to hold in moisture which is good for many recipes. Honey can have a strong taste and a slight tang to it, which is why some people are not fond of its taste.
When the honey is mixed in with other ingredients, the taste does not tend to be overpowering. However, if this is something that concerns you, you can opt to use a milder tasting honey instead, such as acacia. Agave nectar is a syrup, rather than a nectar. It is created using the fluid that is found inside the blue agave plant.