Carob it is not a product commonly used in most Polish kitchens, which is a pity because it has many valuable health-promoting properties. What’s more, cocoa prices have recently gone up, which means that carob may turn out to be an alternative that is not only tasty, but also good for your wallet.
Carob is also known as carob, carob tree, carob and ceratonia. It is an evergreen tree from the Fabaceae family, which is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean countries, North Africa and the Middle East. The pods of the plant are used to prepare carob, a brown powder resembling cocoa. However, carob gum (carob gum) is made from seeds.
It was known 3,000 years ago. Interestingly, carob can be called a biblical plant, information about it can be found in the gospels. John the Baptist was said to have eaten brown pods, they were called “locusts”, which is probably an abbreviation of the full name of the plant.
What properties does carob have? This powder supports the digestive system, improves intestinal function, and even relieves ailments such as reflux. It is worth adding that carob, thanks to its fiber content has an impact on stabilizing blood sugar levels. Thanks presence of gallic acid also has action bactericidal and antiviralthus supporting the body during infections. Additionally, it also has anti-inflammatory effects.
Carob also has a positive effect on immunity body and cardiovascular system. Demonstrates properties that accelerate metabolism.
Carob contains many minerals, such as:
- magnesiumwhich affects the proper functioning of the heart, brain and muscles,
- calcium and phosphorusresponsible for strong bones and teeth, as well as preventing the development of osteoporosis and caries,
- ironwhich reduces the risk of anemia, supports oxygen transport in cells, improves immunity and reduces the feeling of fatigue.
They are also present in it antioxidantswhich help protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and also have anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Both cocoa and carob have many properties that positively affect health, so they can be used interchangeably.
Carob it is slightly lower in calories than cocoa and does not contain caffeine, so it can be given to small children or pregnant women. It also contains more dietary fiber than cocoa and has less fat. The advantage of carob is the lack of substances such as theobromine and oxalic acid, which are found in cocoa and limit the absorption of calcium.
Cocoa however, it is a better source of polyphenols and has more minerals, including magnesium, iron and zinc. It is worth adding that it is also believed to have properties that improve well-being.
Carob is used as a cocoa substitute. You can use it for baking, desserts, sweet dishes, such as pancakes and pancakes, as well as cocktails, oatmeal, yogurt with fruit and muesli. This product will also be used in bread.
What’s more, carob has a sweetish taste, with a caramel note, somewhat reminiscent of cocoa. It is perfect as a way to sweeten dishes. It is worth adding that this powder can be eaten raw.
Where to buy carob? You can easily find it in larger supermarkets, health food stores and those selling world cuisines. You can also order it online.
If you read the ingredients of the products that end up in your shopping cart, you may have come across marking E410, which stands for locust bean gum. This product has thickening and stabilizing properties and is used, among others, to produce sweets, juices, puddings, dairy products and even baby milk.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, biogo.pl
