Agave, a healthier, better choice

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Agave syrup (or agave nectar) is a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, and it's commonly used as a substitute for sugar, honey, or corn syrup in a variety of foods and drinks. Here’s a list of what agave can be used to sweeten: 

1. Beverages Coffee or Tea, Smoothies, Cocktails or Mocktails (especially Margaritas), Lemonade or Iced Tea, Hot Chocolate.  

2. Breakfast Foods Pancakes or waffles (as a syrup alternative), Oatmeal or Porridge, Yogurt or Greek yogurt, Granola or Muesli, Toast with Nut Butters.

3. Baked Goods Cakes and Muffins, Brownies and bars, Cookies (adjust other liquid ingredients when substituting), Quick Breads (e.g., banana bread, zucchini bread). 

4. Sauces and Dressings Salad Dressings (vinaigrettes, especially), BBQ Sauce or Glazes, Marinades for meat or tofu, Dipping Sauces (like sweet chili or teriyaki).  

5. Desserts Puddings and Custards, Ice cream or frozen, Yogurt Fruit salads or baked fruit, Chia seed pudding.  

6. Vegan Recipes Agave is a popular alternative to honey in vegan cooking and baking since it’s plant-based. 

Tips for Using Agave 

-It’s sweeter than sugar, so you can usually use less (about 2/3 cup agave for every 1 cup of sugar). 

-Since it's a liquid, adjust the other liquids in recipes to maintain the right consistency. 

-It has a low glycemic index, but still contains fructose, so it should be used in moderation.