Food – Carob

Carob, a healthy alternative to chocolate or cocoa powder, is also known as St. John’s bread. It grows on Fabaceae trees in pods much like peas and is considered a legume. Many cultures regularly use carob like other nuts and seeds. Carob powder is a healthy alternative to cocoa powder.

“Carob powder contains virtually no fat. If you’re on a low-fat diet, carob powder is a good option. Just keep in mind that it is higher in sugar and carbs than cocoa powder. Just 2 tablespoons of carob powder have 6 grams of sugar, about 1.5 teaspoons. Since most baking recipes call for up to 1 cup of carob powder, the sugar grams can add up fast. Still, if you substitute carob powder for chocolate chips, you’ll save on fat and calories.

“According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American gets 3,400 mg of sodium daily. This is much more than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2,300 mg. The American Heart Association recommends even less, just 1,500 mg daily. Carob powder contains no sodium.

“Calcium is a mineral. It’s important for bone health. It also helps your heart, nerves, and muscles function well. Two tablespoons of carob powder have 42 mg of calcium, or 4 percent of the RDA.

“Carob powder is gluten-free. Carob powder contains no caffeine. Try these ways to add carob powder to your diet:

  • add carob powder to smoothies
  • sprinkle carob powder on yogurt or ice cream
  • add carob powder to your favorite bread dough or pancake batter
  • make a hot carob drink instead of hot chocolate

“Carob powder is Fido-friendly. It doesn’t contain high levels of theobromine, a compound that is toxic to dogs and cats in large quantities. Many dog treats are made with carob powder. There’s no need to panic if your dog or cat gets into your stash.” www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/carob-powder

 

Nutty Carob Candies

Ingredients

½ – ⅔ cup coconut oil

¾ cup dates, pitted (8-10)

¼ cup honey

3 Tbsp. carob powder

Pinch of salt

¾ cup chopped walnuts

Process

Set nuts aside and place all other ingredients into food processor and mix until fully combined. Then add nuts and mix. Spoon into 8 x 8” dish or pan, flatten out and put into refrigerator to set for a few hours. Cut into bite sized squares and enjoy!