Sweeter with nature: coconut nectar and coconut sugar
Alright, sugar lovers and health-conscious pals (yes you can be both!), gather around! We all know that sugar and sweeteners aren’t exactly great for us. But in reality, we all need a little something sweet from time to time. And contrary to the myth you’ve been sold, it is possible to opt for healthier sweet options.
Two stars of the show are organic coconut nectar and organic coconut sugar. They are natural sugars which give you the option for nature’s sweetness in a healthier way.
What’s coconut nectar?
Coconut nectar is a golden elixir extracted from the sap of coconut blossoms. Naturally organic, it undergoes minimal processing, delivering a sweet, caramel-like taste. Packed with essential nutrients, it's a guilt-free alternative to refined sugars, adding a sweet touch to your culinary creations with a lower glycaemic index.
Coconut blossoms are nature’s own vegan sugar factory. Local farmers harvest the sap. It’s then gently heated which leads to an oozing gooey sweet syrup that we call coconut nectar. Produced on a small scale, it’s naturally free of unwanted chemicals and additives, unlike most sugary syrups that you can buy.
And what about coconut sugar?
Coconut sugar is somewhat similar. However, instead of a syrup, the sap is heated until it crystallises, forming a rich brown natural sugar. No refining, no bleaching, just pure sweetness from the coconut tree. All sugar needs to be used in moderation, but choosing one which is both natural and minimally processed is essential.
Why are coconut nectar and coconut sugar better than other sugars and sweeteners?
Alright, sugar talk can get a bit sticky, but here's the lowdown: our bodies aren't exactly BFFs with highly processed sugars and artificial sweeteners. Those refined sugars and corn syrups? They might be easy to mass produce, and provide some sweetness, but our bodies often respond with a rollercoaster of energy spikes and crashes, leaving us feeling like a deflated balloon. The same happens with sweeteners. We’re told they’re better for us because they have fewer calories, but they still trick the body into a similar response. Long-term use can still cause problems with insulin-resistance, for example.
Coconut nectar and coconut sugar come to the rescue with a lower glycaemic index, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels compared to their refined counterparts. No sugar rush followed by a crash—just a sweet, steady ride. Because of the minimal processing coconut nectar and sugars even retain some of the nutrients, elements and antioxidants of the sap they are made from. And there are no added nasties in terms of artificial chemicals.
When it comes to sweet stuff, moderation is key
While organic coconut nectar and organic coconut sugar are far better choices than artificial sweeteners or highly processed sugars, it’s still important to enjoy sweetness in moderation.
Our bodies are designed to handle natural sugars found in whole foods like fruits and, you guessed it, coconuts. But when we go overboard with the added sugars, it can lead to a variety of health issues. So, embrace coconut nectar and coconut sugar, but keep it in the framework of a balanced diet.
How to use coconut nectar and coconut sugar
Now that we've established the sweetness superiority of coconut-derived wonders, let's talk about how to sprinkle that magic into your culinary creations.
1. Sweeten your sips
Whether you like some sweetness with your golden turmeric drink, or like an edge of sweetness to sooth the bitterness of your morning coffee, both coconut nectar and coconut sugar can be added to hot drinks. If you’re feeling run down, make a lemon and nectar drink, or if you want warming up on a cold day, make cocoa with coconut milk and coconut sugar.
It’s not just about hot drinks either. Blend coconut nectar into your smoothies for a natural sweetness boost. It's the perfect way to enhance the fruity goodness without the need for processed sugars. So, if your raspberries are a tad tart, or you just fancy something sweeter, add a squeeze of coconut nectar.
2. Baking bliss
Swap your regular sugar for coconut sugar in your baking escapades. From cookies to cakes, coconut sugar adds a caramel-like richness that will have your taste buds doing the happy dance. You can swap it in for refined sugar on a 1:1 basis, so it’s not complicated.
We’ve got lots of baking recipes in our blog that use coconut sugar, and also ones which use coconut nectar. Try the Raspberry Coconut White Chocolate Muffins or Double Chocolate Coconut Sugar Biscuits.
3. Saucy sensations
Create heavenly sauces by adding coconut nectar to your stir-fries, marinades, or glazes. It's the secret ingredient that transforms a regular dish into a flavour explosion. Enjoying sweetness alongside savoury food like wholegrains also helps to minimise the sugar spike. Coconut nectar is great mixed with our coconut aminos for a sweet marinade or glaze, while a sprinkle of coconut sugar can transform a curry.
4. Morning pick-me-ups
Sprinkle coconut sugar on your morning porridge or cereal. It's a delightful way to start your day with a touch of natural sweetness and crunch. Or spread coconut nectar on toast, much like you would with honey. It’s a wonderful sweet start to the day.
Sweetness doesn’t need to come with a side-serving of guilt
The chances are that you’ve taken on the messaging that sweet things are bad things. When you choose natural organic sugars, like organic coconut nectar and organic coconut sugar, that’s not the case. You can enjoy some sweetness in moderation, knowing you’re making the best choice and can enjoy the sweet moments guilt free. It’s all about making the best choices and enjoying a balance.
So, whether you're a baking enthusiast, a coffee connoisseur, or just someone with a sweet tooth craving a guilt-free indulgence, head over to our shop and stock up on some organic coconut nectar or organic coconut sugar.