Health benefits Unlike chocolate, carob has negligible amounts of fat, and contains no caffeine or tyramine, the natural occurring substance responsible for inducing headaches. It also boasts significant amounts of B vitamins, potassium, folate, iron, calcium and fibre. In addition, scientists have recently discovered the malty powder plays host to a bevy of phenolic compounds, including the renowned cancer-fighters myricetin and quercetin. Not surprisingly, several studies have confirmed carob’s ability to prevent and inhibit the growth of cancer cells in both the colon and cervix. The good news doesn’t end there. Carob has also been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and has even been touted by Italian researchers as a natural alternative to tranquilizers due to its anti-anxiety properties.
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In the kitchen Clearly, carob’s inclusion in the diet offers some amazing health benefits. But what about its taste? “While carob is often recommended as a ‘replacement’ for chocolate, its flavour is only somewhat reminiscent of chocolate,” says Heather Cunliffe, chef and co-owner of Be Love restaurant. “In truth, carob has its own distinct, malty, caramel-like sweetness that can add new depths to both sweet and savoury dishes.” Available in powder form or chips, it can be used in myriad ways and is so much more than just a second-class substitute for cocoa. If you are not convinced, try these palate-pleasing ways to incorporate carob into your diet.
Suggested uses • Mix carob flour with nut butters, dried fruits, honey and spices to make delicious energy bars. • Sprinkle a tablespoon of carob flour over your morning flakes and milk for a choco luscious start to your day. • Be like a trendy Australian chef and mix the powder with tahini and spread the resulting creaminess over charred flatbread. • Add carob chips to your quick bread, cookie, or muffin recipes or melt them into almond milk to create a delicious, caffeine-free hot beverage. • Add a teaspoon of carob powder to your decaf for a nojitters hot mocha bevvie. • Pair carob chips with dried fruits, seeds and nuts for a trail mix your kids will love. • Add rich flavour to breads by substituting two to three tablespoons of carob for every cup of flour used. • Put ice, a banana and carob flour in a blender to create a refreshing nutritious drink.
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