An exotic product from Cyprus, carob - what are the benefits and harms of this product and where to use it. Carob - its benefits and harms, interesting recipes

The benefits and harms of carob is a curious question for lovers of unusual exotic products. To answer correctly, you should understand the features and characteristics of the flour and fruits of the plant.

What is carob and where does it grow?

Carob or carob is an evergreen fruit plant whose homeland is considered to be the Mediterranean. Currently, the plant is artificially cultivated in Italy, Spain, Portugal and a number of other countries.

The main value of the carob tree is its fruit, which is actively used in cooking and home medicine. After flowering, carob produces long, narrow, curved pods filled with seeds and juicy pulp. These pods look like horns, hence the name of the plant. The flowering time of the carob tree is amazing - it can bear fruit for up to 90 years in a row, and the yield of the plant increases every year.

Chemical composition of carob

The fruits of the plant are valued not only for their pleasant taste, but also for their properties. Carob contains:

vitamins B1 and B6;
vitamin E;
natural acid PP;
calcium and phosphorus;
iron and sodium;
magnesium and zinc;
manganese and selenium;
tannins, ash and fiber.

The listed components provide the plant with medical and gastronomic benefits. Carob can even be used for treatment, and not just to enjoy the sweet taste.

Nutritional value and calorie content of carob

The composition of healthy fruits is mainly represented by carbohydrates, their content is approximately 50 g. Carob also contains 4.6 g of proteins and very little fat - about 0.7 g. The calorie content of dry carob is average - about 220 kcal per 100 g of product.

What are the benefits of carob?

Even in moderate quantities, carob brings invaluable benefits to the body. Valuable properties are manifested in a variety of areas.

For adult men and women

The general benefits of carob for the body are that the product:

improves blood quality and protects against anemia and anemia due to increased iron content;
helps strengthen blood vessels and protects the heart from ailments;
serves as a good natural diuretic, therefore eliminates swelling and benefits the kidneys;
helps restore proper metabolism, copes with diarrhea and flatulence, relieves nausea;
helps eliminate fever and sore throat during colds and sore throats;
strengthens vision - carob contains a lot of vitamin B2, important for the prevention and treatment of cataracts;
has a beneficial effect on potency - when consuming carob, male libido increases;
relieves inflammation and pain in prostatitis and adenoma;
protects the body from viruses and bacterial infections.

Carob is also a good preventative against rickets, which is especially useful for teenagers and young people.

For the elderly

The strengthening and hematopoietic properties of carob are very useful for older people. Eating carob is useful for blood pressure surges, headaches and joint ailments. The plant has a beneficial effect on memory and brain activity, allowing you to maintain mental clarity longer.

When losing weight

On a diet, carob syrup is especially beneficial - it contains glucose, which suppresses appetite and creates a feeling of fullness. In addition, chocolate and coffee are made from carob. They also muffle the feeling of hunger and allow you not to experience stress due to the lack of familiar tasty foods.

When using carob, getting rid of extra pounds occurs faster. At the same time, women who are losing weight do not have the feeling that for the sake of a cherished goal they have to give up all their favorite foods.

Is carob good for children?

The properties of carob are quite safe for babies - carob can be safely added to baby purees. The product will be of great benefit if a child is allergic to ordinary chocolate. You can prepare a delicacy from carob, and there will be no harm from it.

Attention! Since carob remains a fairly new product on the wide market, and its properties have not been fully studied, before introducing carob into a child’s diet, you should consult a pediatrician.

Is it possible to have carob during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Manufacturers claim that in small quantities, carob cannot harm pregnant women or nursing mothers. However, it is better to further consult with your doctor regarding the advisability of using the product.

During lactation, it is also necessary to carefully look at the baby's food reaction. At the first signs of an allergy, carob fruits will need to be removed from the diet.

Carob for diabetes

Healthy carob contains no sugar, only vegetable glucose and sucrose. Therefore, it is possible to use carob derivatives with a low glycemic index for diabetes. Carob is especially popular as a substitute for chocolate and cocoa - it tastes even better and does not cause harm to health. There is no addiction when using it.

In addition, for diabetes, carob helps control weight and regulates cholesterol levels in the blood.

Carob flour in folk medicine

Carob is mainly used in cooking and for making drinks. However, there are also healing recipes based on the product. In particular, two carob-based products are popular.

For diarrhea, mix 20 g of carob in a glass of milk or warm water and add a pinch of starch. The mixture is drunk a couple of times a day; the product soothes the mucous membranes and has a beneficial effect on peristalsis, so that diarrhea quickly stops.
For ARVI, homemade medicine is prepared in almost the same way - 20 g of carob is diluted in a glass of water. But you need to take the product up to 6 times a day, then the effect will come quickly.

Carob in home cosmetology

The beneficial properties of carob also appear in the field of beauty. Carob is used in masks with a scrub effect - such mixtures simultaneously cleanse and moisturize the skin.

Carob flour is often mixed with honey, lemon juice, dairy products and other ingredients. The benefits of cosmetic products will differ depending on the specific composition of the masks. However, in any case, carob will nourish the skin with valuable minerals and vitamins B and E.

How else are carob fruits used?

Carob fruits have a healing effect on the body. Therefore, not only simple healing cocktails are prepared from beans and flour, but also other means to improve well-being and improve tone.

Carob tea

Crushed carob pods are suitable for preparing tasty and healthy herbal tea. It is very easy to brew carob - add a tablespoon of ground beans to a glass of hot water and wait a quarter of an hour.

Drink infused tea twice a day if desired. The properties of the product are of great benefit for nervous tension, and also relieve cold symptoms.

If desired, carob flour can be added to regular tea; it will give the drink an original taste.

Carob syrup

A healthy product based on carob is a sweet syrup that is obtained from finely chopped carob beans by evaporation. The product can serve as a delicious dessert, but more often it is used for medicinal purposes. In particular, the syrup helps against diarrhea and nervous disorders, diseases of the respiratory system and insomnia. Due to its high calcium content, the syrup effectively protects bones from osteoporosis.

Carob oil

Oil with a high concentration of vitamins and minerals is industrially obtained from fresh carob fruits. The oil is used to treat intestinal and stomach diseases, to calm the nerves and regulate sleep. The properties of the product increase hemoglobin in the blood, so taking the oil protects against the development of anemia.

However, due to the strong concentration of active elements in the oil, not everyone can use the product. The oil is prohibited for allergy sufferers and small children under 2 years of age - the product may harm them.

Carob gum

Gum is a resin extracted from the seeds of a plant - the product looks like a white powder and is used in cooking as a food additive. Semi-liquid mixtures acquire a gel-like consistency when gum is added.

Carob gum is added to ice cream and semi-finished meat products as a stabilizer; the substance can be found in cheeses, soups, sauces and mayonnaise. Carob bean gum improves the texture of products, acts as a binder and thickener.

Use of carob in cooking

The unusual carob fruit and the flour obtained from it are often used in cooking, mainly in confectionery and baking. In particular, carob is used:

as an additive for ice cream and yoghurt, carob flour is used instead of cocoa to improve the taste and consistency of products;
as a sweet powder for fruit and berry desserts - here carob replaces powdered sugar;
in the production of confectionery products from dough - like cocoa, carob flour gives the dough a brown color and a sweet taste, while the structure of muffins, cakes and pies remains unchanged, and the beneficial properties increase;
when creating dessert pastes, carob is mixed with honey and spices, butter and coconut oil;
in the manufacture of sweets, carob is mixed with nuts, sesame seeds, berries and other ingredients, the result is a very tasty delicacy that is not harmful to health.

Sweet drinks based on carob are popular. They are prepared in much the same way as chocolate cocktails, only instead of regular chocolate and cocoa, hot water or milk is poured with carob powder.

Recipes with carob

Treats containing carob do not have to be purchased at the store. If desired, many of them can be prepared at home; they will turn out no less tasty, and the properties will be completely natural.

Carob drink

The simplest recipe is a thick, sweet and aromatic drink made from high-quality carob. How to prepare carob drink? There is nothing complicated about this - the recipe is about the same as for cocoa.

Heat 2 glasses of milk and pour in 1.5 or 2 large spoons of dark carob.
Stir the drink thoroughly and, if necessary, cool for several minutes to a temperature suitable for consumption.
If the consistency is too thick, dilute the sweet drink with plain water and stir thoroughly again.

Advice! The drink, based on carob bean flour, is very sweet in itself.

But you can still add a teaspoon of flower or linden honey to it - the benefits of the product will only increase, but there will be no harm.

Carob chocolate recipe

If you have crushed carob beans at home, you can make healthy natural chocolate from them; in many cases, it will be more valuable for the body than store-bought sweets. In addition to carob, you only need to take a little butter and coconut flakes. Make the delicacy as follows:

Melt 100 g of butter in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes completely liquid;
add carob to the oil and stir until it is completely dissolved in the oil, leaving no lumps;
add a teaspoon of honey and a little coconut to the mixture and mix thoroughly again;
the resulting mass is poured into a pre-prepared mold of any shape, if desired, sprinkled with finely chopped nuts or pieces of dried fruit on top;
The naturally cooled workpiece is placed in the freezer and kept in it for at least an hour until the mixture hardens entirely.

Healthy homemade chocolate can be eaten in small pieces, after keeping it slightly at room temperature, otherwise the product will be too hard. At the same time, you cannot store carob chocolate outside the refrigerator - it will melt and it will become uncomfortable to eat.

Chocolate cupcake with box

A simple and tasty recipe is to prepare a soft and fragrant cake with the addition of carob flour. The advantage of the recipe is that the ingredients for it are very inexpensive, present in every kitchen.

Cooking process:

Melt 200 g of natural butter in an enamel container and add 4 large spoons of carob powder and one and a half glasses of sugar;
pour the ingredients with half a glass of milk, bring to a boil, quickly remove from the stove and set to cool;
in a glass of kefir, quench half a teaspoon of soda and add to the warm glaze mixture;
pour 2 cups of flour into a container and knead the dough thoroughly, without leaving any lumps in it;
The workpiece is laid out in special baking dishes and placed in an oven preheated to 200 °C for 50 minutes.

If desired, the raw dough can be flavored with cinnamon, pieces of nuts or raisins, which will make the finished chocolate muffins even tastier.

Harm of carob and contraindications

The health benefits and harms of carob remain an unresolved issue.

On the one hand, researchers recognize products based on the fruits of an exotic plant as safe. Thus, European, American and Arab scientists have not identified any harm in the properties of carob - the beans and powder are allowed for consumption by adults and children.
Often, carob is even prescribed to young children as a remedy - it stops diarrhea and helps fight child regurgitation.
The recommended daily dosage of the product for adults is about 20 g. For children, exact standards have not yet been established, but usually nutritionists and doctors advise measuring half of the “adult” volumes of the product.

However, today the benefits and harms of carob drinks and dishes are still in the process of study and clinical research. For example, the benefit of the product for diabetes has not yet been 100% proven - it has only been established that it does not harm diabetics. There is no exact information about the effect of carob in combination with medications and other medicinal plants.

Attention! Particular attention should be paid to the reaction of young children to the product.

During pregnancy and lactation, the advisability of consuming carob powder should be discussed with your doctor.

How to choose carob

Carob powder is not sold in regular stores; you will have to go to a health food establishment to buy it. The product can be found in three varieties - unroasted, medium roasted or light roasted. When choosing, it is recommended to pay attention to the following important points:

country of origin- natural carob is supplied from the USA, the Mediterranean and Australia;
brand reliability- it is better to purchase an exotic product from trusted manufacturers, even if it costs a little more.

Before purchasing, you should evaluate the color, aroma and taste of the unusual carob powder.

The product, which has not been roasted, has a slight nutty odor and a beige tint.
The medium-roasted powder exudes a chocolate smell, tastes bitter, and looks like ground coffee.
The lightly roasted powder has a caramel flavor with a slight sourness, and its color is usually light brown.

Medium-roasted carob is suitable for most culinary and medicinal purposes. It retains quite a lot of useful properties and is inexpensive.

How to store carob at home

In order for carob to retain its beneficial properties longer, after purchasing it is recommended to pour the flour into a foil bag and put it in a cardboard package. The product should be kept in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight. The valuable properties of carob remain for 1.5 years, after which you will need to purchase a new portion.

Pods containing carob beans that have not been processed are good for consumption for 1.5-2 years. It is recommended to store them in a tightly closed glass or tin jar in the dark, in conditions of low humidity.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of carob depend on the naturalness of the exotic product. Real carob will become a valuable ingredient for baking and home remedies. But it is important to observe moderation in consumption, since any product is dangerous in too large quantities.

Carob is a natural substitute for cocoa powder that is becoming increasingly popular among people who care about healthy eating but also have a sweet tooth.

Carob is extracted from carob beans (also called Ceratonia). The homeland of this tree is considered to be the Mediterranean, and it was not initially cultivated. It was cultivated after it came to Australia.

In those days, carob was considered exclusively a medicinal product that was good for coughs. And much later it began to be used in cooking instead of cocoa.

But the taste of carob depends on the quality and method of roasting. If roasting is not done well, the taste of the product will deteriorate.

Today, carob powder is produced not only in Australia, but also in Spain, Turkey, Cyprus and Portugal.

Benefits of carob

This powder is rich in antioxidants, which is why it has long been considered a means of prolonging youth. And this is true, because when antioxidants enter the body, they react with free radicals, which in turn destroys cells that negatively affect the skin. This way there is less negative impact on the skin, and it remains young for a long time.

It is also necessary to clarify that, unlike chocolate, carob does not contain salsolinol, which causes dependence and addiction.

It is also important that cocoa contains theobromine, a substance that affects the psyche and emotional state, while carob does not contain a similar enzyme, which means that you can consume it without fear for your psycho-emotional state. Moreover, such a drink helps to calm down and tune in to a positive mood.

But the main difference between carob is that it does not contain sugar, and the sweetness is achieved due to fructose and sucrose, which are present in its composition. Therefore, this product can be consumed even by people suffering from diabetes and those who adhere to a diet. But still, if you have diabetes, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using carob for the first time.

Another advantage of this product is that our body completely absorbs all the minerals, vitamins and other beneficial enzymes of carob, which brings us twice as much benefit. The same cannot be said about cocoa.

Carob bean powder also contains fiber, which helps improve the digestive process. And dietary fiber, together with antioxidants, well cleanses the body of waste and toxins.

History has it that in ancient times, healers used carob as a powerful antiseptic to treat diarrhea and poisoning. This remedy was especially helpful for children.

We can talk about the beneficial properties of carob for a very long time, for example, a drink made from this powder lowers cholesterol and cleanses the blood. And if you drink it on a regular basis, it will be a good prevention of heart disease.

If you or your children really love cocoa, then it is recommended to use carob instead, then you will not need to additionally sweeten the drink with sugar, which will undoubtedly have a more beneficial effect on your health.

Carob for oncology

Based on the research, it became clear that carob contains a lot of polyphenolic compounds. You might immediately think that the powder is toxic - yes, it is, but its toxicity only applies to cancer cells. Therefore, by eating carob, you are preventing cancer.

This product is especially useful for women, as it effectively fights the development of tumors in the cervix.

Carob for diabetes

We have already said above that carob-based products are indicated for people suffering from diabetes. And it’s not just about sugar, but also about the minimum amount of fat. If you compare it with cocoa powder, then carob contains 3 times less fat, and therefore calories.

If you eat carob-based foods, you can minimize glucose spikes.

Carob for the digestive system

As we have already said, carob contains fiber, and it has a positive effect on metabolism and intestinal motility. After some time of consuming carob, people experienced normalization of appetite and digestion.

Carob for children

It is not recommended to include carob products in the menu for children under 2 years of age. Older children can consume it in very limited quantities. The fact is that the powder contains tannin, a tannin that reduces the production of protein in tissues, which slows down the growth of the child.

Carob for men

According to some data, we can conclude that carob has a positive effect on the potency and genitals of men, eliminating and preventing their diseases. And if you regularly eat foods that contain this element, you can increase sperm activity.

Harm of carob

Numerous studies have failed to establish the visible harm of carob; however, it is known that its excessive consumption can lead to problems with well-being. Especially if the person has never eaten it.

If you decide to introduce carob products into your diet, do it gradually, monitoring your condition.

Also, despite the fact that the product is indicated for diabetes, it must be used very carefully. The fact is that the methods of frying carob beans are different for all companies, so a drink or chocolate based on carob may not lower, but, on the contrary, increase the glucose level.

And, of course, you should not overeat this product. The norm for people with diabetes is no more than 20 grams.

And it is worth repeating once again that give chocolate and drinks based on carob powder to children with caution, and these products are contraindicated for children under 2 years of age.

As you can see, carob is one of the most unique products that bring many benefits and cause virtually no harm.

Among healthy eating enthusiasts, carob is considered one of the healthiest sweets. In terms of its taste, it is very similar to cocoa, but its properties are much superior to it. What is carob? These are the fruits of the carob tree, ground into powder, growing in the Mediterranean countries - Spain, Italy, Cyprus. Trees are not difficult to grow; they grow in the wild. The fruits are collected slightly unripe and then dried in the sun. Despite its usefulness, carob can even be dangerous if used incorrectly. That is why you should know the composition of the product, its properties, and contraindications in order to understand all the benefits and harms of carob. This will help you use the powder for health benefits.

It is interesting that carob grains have absolutely the same mass and size among themselves. This feature was used in ancient times as a measure of mass (carat). To this day, this measure is used in pharmaceuticals and jewelry to determine the mass of substances (precious metals, etc.).

Carob. What it is?

What is carob for nutrition?

Carob is a natural food powder obtained by grinding the carob tree. It resembles cocoa in appearance, taste and smell, but its properties are much healthier.

Firstly, the carob tree is not treated with chemicals, as it is practically not susceptible to diseases.
Secondly, the fruits themselves are sweet, and the addition of refined sugar is not required to make the sweet powder. True, to get sweet fruits, you need to remove the unripe pods from the tree and lay them out in the sun. Then they will ripen and become sweet.
Thirdly, carob fruits do not contain caffeine, which is also used by people for whom it is contraindicated. Carob is allowed even for pregnant women.

The carob tree itself or Ceratonia (from the Greek “ceratos” - horn) is an evergreen tree that does not require special care. The fruits are large pods 20-25 cm long, resembling horns (hence the name).

Composition of carob

Protein or protein. Carob contains a fairly large amount of protein (up to 8%). This substance is a structural component of amino acids, nucleic acids and all cells of the body. In addition, the protein content provides its energy value.
Vitamins. Carob contains a large amount of B vitamins (in particular, B1, B2). They are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and support metabolic processes. Interestingly, it contains more vitamins of this group than legumes or strawberries. Carob is also rich in vitamin A (retinol), which is necessary for healthy eyes, skin, and hair. Vitamin D (calciferol) regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphorus in the human body, thereby normalizing the functioning of the musculoskeletal system.
Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) are found in small quantities in carob. There is an opinion that these fats are harmful to the body. This is not entirely true. In large quantities, EFAs are deposited on the walls of blood vessels, clogging their lumen. But in small quantities (daily intake 25% of all fats), these fatty acids are a source of energy for cells. Thanks to their presence, the successful absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) occurs.
Microelements. Carob contains large amounts of phosphorus and calcium (as well as vitamin D for their absorption). Therefore, its fruits are useful for the prevention of osteoporosis. In addition, carob is rich in potassium and magnesium, which are necessary for the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Iron is contained in a form that is easily absorbed by the human body. A small amount of copper, zinc, manganese, nickel included in the composition is quite sufficient, because the need for these elements is small.

31.03.2016 Pelagia Zuikova Save:

Hello, my dear readers! Are there people among your friends who do not like chocolate and cannot live without this harmful product? I don't have those.

How then can you not deny yourself such small sweet joys and take care of your health and figure at the same time? Carob powder is an excellent alternative to chocolate, and is also very healthy.

What are the benefits of carob for the body and how to use it in what form, I will now tell you in as much detail as possible and with live examples. Therefore, read the article to the end and very carefully so as not to miss important points.

What is carob?

Carob is obtained from carob beans, which are native to Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain and others). This evergreen tree is not susceptible to virtually any diseases, so it is not sprayed with chemicals. This means you won’t get any “surprises” in the form of pesticides.

This product is not eaten raw, but unripe fruits (carob pods) are picked and dried in the sun, like dried apricots. That is why beans retain all their beneficial properties.

Chemical composition

Carob fruits contain:

vitamins A, B, B2, E, D;
minerals: calcium, magnesium, iron and many others;
many essential amino acids;
substance arginine (promotes rejuvenation of the body).

The calorie content of carob is only 222 kcal per 100 grams, which is not so much.

I'm glad that this superfood does not contain caffeine, theobromine and other harmful substances. Chocolate bars, candy bars, candies, cookies, cakes, pastries - these sweets are harmful, increase blood pressure, contribute to excess weight gain, and sometimes cause addiction akin to drugs. With carob it's the other way around.

What are the health benefits of carob?

Let's look at the beneficial properties of carob. As you may have guessed, dear friends, carob beans are unique.

The beneficial properties of carob fruits are as follows:

remove toxins, heavy metals and other harmful substances from the body;
promote rejuvenation of the body;
reduce cholesterol;
improve digestion, normalizes intestinal microflora;
reduce the frequency of regurgitation in babies;
cause a feeling of satiety (note to those losing weight!);
treat stomach disorders;
have a calming effect on the nervous system;
have a positive effect on mood;
prevent the development of rubella and polio in children;
strengthen the immune system and support the body as a whole.

As you can see, how many properties this seemingly inconspicuous cocoa-like powder contains.

It is not for nothing that many ancient peoples considered the carob tree sacred, and in Christian scriptures its fruits are called nothing less than “the bread of St. John.” In Cyprus, bean syrup is called “black gold”, and in Malta it is used as a cough medicine.

Contraindications

Carob is a product that has no contraindications. Friends, can you imagine, none! Harm from high-quality carob is excluded.

This cocoa substitute is allowed even during breastfeeding(!). Therefore, young mothers can safely afford a carob drink without fear of harming the baby. It is recommended not only for women “in an interesting situation”, but also for newborns for the treatment of diarrhea. Taking off my hat…

I will now tell and show you how to use the miracle powder with maximum benefit for the body.

Types of carob - what kind is it?

We are offered two options for ground carob beans: raw (unroasted) and roasted (varying degrees of roasting). When you open a pack of carob, you will see a powder similar to cocoa, only a little lighter.

Roasted is practically not sweet, has a slightly bitter aftertaste and is very similar to chocolate. Personally, I don’t use it, because... I think that all the benefits come from raw carob.

It is not in vain that unroasted carob is considered the most useful, because... it is not subject to heat treatment. Therefore, it is quite sweet and is used in cooking, usually without added sugar or other sweeteners.

You can also find unground carob pods on sale, usually raw. They are also good and have their fans, especially among raw foodists.

How to use carob?

1. Recipes for carob drinks

The most common drink option is 2 tablespoons of carob per glass of water. It is imperative to use raw carob; it has a sweet, pleasant taste.

There are unique people who use roasted carob in a drink and then lament that it is terrible rubbish. Indeed, you can drink such, to put it mildly, disgusting stuff only after convincing yourself of its terrible usefulness. Of course, with the addition of milk it turns out fine, but I still recommend the first option.

As a result, I made an excellent drink from unroasted carob powder (photo below).

I love cinnamon, I tried adding it and it turned out to have a very pleasant taste and aroma. Be sure to try it, you will like it too.

2. Carob candies - recipe

See how to make the simplest and most delicious candies from carob and dates. Now I will give a recipe for gourmets who love an abundance of flavors, but made from natural products.

So, for carob sweets we will need the following ingredients:

200 grams of prunes, dried apricots, cherries (you can add other dried fruits or berries, for example, dates, cranberries, raisins);
nuts: walnuts or cashews (200 grams);
carob powder;
coconut flakes (to taste).

Prepare the sweets like this:

Soak dried fruits slightly and pass through a meat grinder;
finely chop the nuts with a knife;
mix the resulting dried fruits and nuts well;
add enough carob powder so that balls form easily;
form into balls and roll in sweet coconut flakes;
Roll the balls in carob powder.

Voila! The results are these candy balls:

Many people will really like carob candies, because they are incredibly tasty and healthy. Even those who follow a strict diet can afford them (in reasonable quantities, of course).

You can endlessly describe the treats made from the miracle powder. Among them: cupcakes, cookies, cakes, pies and much more. You can take any recipe that contains cocoa as a basis and adjust it to your taste. Carob can be used in different ways. Experiment!

Where to buy carob?

This product is practically never found in supermarkets. Roasted, unroasted carob and whole pods can be found in specialized online stores.

Storing carob is very easy. Just like cocoa, in a dry place at room temperature. The powder can be stored for up to two years, but it is so tasty that you will eat it much earlier

Friends, that's all I have for today. I told you about an interesting and very useful product. I hope we managed to debunk the myth that if you adhere to proper nutrition, you have to eat not very tasty and bland food.

What recipes do you know for carob goodies? I look forward to your feedback and impressions in the comments below!

P.S. If you liked the article, tell your family and friends about it. We will welcome new readers and will always welcome them warmly and comfortably. Don’t get lost, follow the blog news - we still have so much unknown and interesting things ahead. No goodbyes, see you soon!

ZY Subscribe to blog updates– there is still a lot of interesting things ahead!

Carob or carob can be found in any country on the Mediterranean coast. Greeks, Italians, Cypriots, and Israelis know about sweet carob pods no less than we do about apples or apricots. Gradually, the tree began to be cultivated in many countries with a suitable climate, and now evergreen ceratonia successfully bears fruit in Turkey, India, Australia, Argentina, Brazil, the USA, and the Middle East. The carob tree is not uncommon in the Caucasus.

Carob - what is it?

Carob is ground carob fruits that have a very pleasant smell, reminiscent of cocoa beans. But unlike chocolate, carob is much lighter and healthier and does not contain caffeine or fat. This is a godsend for lovers of sweets and natural plant products.

Carob or ceratonia (lat. Ceratónia) is a representative of the legume family. The Greek word κέρας (сeras) is translated as “horn”. The curved fruits are indeed shaped like horns; their sweet pulp contains 50% sugars.

10-meter trees with a dense crown grow on roadsides and are cultivated for industrial harvesting. Upon closer inspection, you can see that the branches are densely dotted with large curved pods, while you can simultaneously see green and ripe, brown fruits. The green pods are tart and are not eaten, but after drying the ripe fruits, they exhibit sweetness, a characteristic aroma and taste of caramel. Carob is cultivated for its sweet pulp, which can replace chocolate and cocoa, sweeten food and give dishes an original taste.

In addition to the pulp, hard bean seeds are used. Exactly identical rounded grains are used to produce a gum - a stabilizer and thickener, known as the food additive E410. The beneficial properties of carob seeds are used by the food and pharmaceutical industries.

The tree grows well in arid climates and on rocky soils, can live for several centuries and bear fruit for up to 100 years. The first harvest of sweet beans grows in the seventh year; about 10 kilograms are harvested from young trees; mature trees bear up to 200 kg of fruit.

Mature pods do not open or fall; they are picked from trees and dried in the sun. After this, the pulp is used to make powder of varying degrees of roasting, syrup, pekmez, and chocolate. Carob harvests allow the beans to be used not only for making sweets; the pods are traditionally used to feed domestic animals.

What are the benefits of carob?

Typically, the benefits of carob are described in comparison with cocoa. It must be admitted that there are some similarities, but carob powder is not only a cocoa surrogate. Many people like the taste of traditional chocolate; it would be a mistake to consider it a product harmful and hazardous to health. A cup of coffee with a slice of natural chocolate improves your mood and tones you up. Carob is an independent product with a pleasant taste and aroma; it is consumed with pleasure not only by people for whom caffeine and sugar are contraindicated. Drinks and sweets with carob, the beneficial properties of which have been known for centuries, diversify the diet and enrich food with vitamins and microelements.

Chemical composition

100 grams of carob powder contain 222 kcal, which is almost two times less than cocoa. This makes sweets with carob popular among people who lead a healthy lifestyle and watch their figure. But carob is loved not only for its low calorie content - the chemical composition of carob products is unique.

Squirrels

Carob contains about 9% plant proteins. Without protein, the normal functioning of vital organs and systems, cell regeneration, metabolism, and the formation of hormones are impossible. The most proteins are found in meat, fish, milk and eggs, but vegetarians get their proteins from plant foods. Carob, like all legumes, can compensate for protein deficiency.

Carbohydrates

30% carbohydrates is a high figure, which is explained by the high sugar content. The carbohydrates in carob are complex, meaning they are digested slowly and do not lead to spikes in blood glucose and excess weight gain. The feeling of fullness remains for a long time; a significant part of the energy is spent on the breakdown of sucrose. Fiber is only partially digested, aiding digestion and lowering blood glucose levels.

Simple carbohydrates are contraindicated in diabetes, but carob, which has its own sweetness and is rich in fiber, is absorbed slowly and is allowed in moderation for diabetics. Glycemic index (GI) of carob is 40 units. However, carob can be harmful if consumed in unlimited quantities.

Fats

Carob is practically devoid of fat - there is only 1%. The lack of fat explains the low calorie content of carob. The low content of saturated fatty acids makes it possible to absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins

Group B - in terms of the content of these vitamins, ceratonia fruits are among the leaders. Riboflavin is needed for normal metabolism and maintenance of the nervous system.
A - retinol is useful for good vision, smooth skin, shiny hair.
D - every parent knows about the importance of this vitamin; it is responsible for the full development and functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Cocoa, chocolate and syrup are especially useful for children as a source of calciferol, but carob is contraindicated in children under two years of age. The ban is caused by the possible non-acceptance of carob powder by the incompletely formed digestive system.

Microelements

Potassium and magnesium are necessary for normal heart function, vascular elasticity and maintenance of the nervous system.

Iron is part of hemoglobin; when it is deficient, the supply of oxygen to tissues is disrupted. In addition, Fe is involved in the disposal of cholesterol and toxins.

Useful substances in carob:

Elements	100 grams of carob	Relative to daily requirement (percentage)
BJU
Carbohydrates	49 g	30%
Squirrels	5.6 g	9%
Fats	1 g	1%
Cholesterol	0 g
Cellulose	39.8 g	159%
Vitamins
B1 (thiamine)	0.1 mg	4%
B2 (riboflavin)	0.5 mg	27%
B3 (niacin)	1.9 mg	9%
B6 (pyridoxine)	0.4 mg	18%
B9 (folic acid)	0.29 mcg	7%
E (tocopherol)	0.6 mg	3%
Kholin	11.9 mg	4%
Microelements
Sodium	35 mg	1%
Potassium	827 mg	24%
Calcium	348 mg	35%
Copper	0.6 mg	29%
Iron	2.9 mg	16%
Magnesium	54 mg	14%
Manganese	0.5 mg	25%
Phosphorus	79 mg	8%
Selenium	5/3 mcg	8%
Zinc	0.9 mg	6%

Carob: benefits and harm

Based on the composition of proteins, fats and carbohydrates (BJC), carob can be classified as a dietary product recommended in a balanced diet and in the treatment of certain diseases. The value of this tasty product is due not only to the presence of useful substances, but also to the absence of some chemical elements that are found in coffee and cocoa.

Carob products do not contain:

Salsolinol. A non-peptide opioid that is addictive. This substance causes addiction to alcohol, coffee and chocolate.
Phenylethylamine. E a natural alkaloid that acts as a stimulant. The mood-lifting property of chocolate, known to all sweet tooths, is explained by the presence of this compound in cocoa. Phenylethylamine may cause headaches.
Theobromine. The pulse quickens, the heartbeat becomes too distinct, and sometimes tachycardia and increased blood pressure may occur.
Caffeine. A stimulant that stimulates the nervous and cardiovascular systems. These properties are well known to coffee lovers, but in large quantities caffeine constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure and causes headaches.
Oxalic acid. Oxalate, which interferes with the absorption of zinc and calcium. A deficiency of these elements is manifested by muscle pain.
Cholesterol.It is absent in carob, as in all plant foods. Carob products help cleanse blood vessels from harmful cholesterol.
Allergens.Carob is one of the low-allergenic products.

A unique set of beneficial substances, combined with the absence of stimulants and allergens, turns carob into a valuable food product. Roasted and unroasted beans, syrup, pekmez are widely used in the preparation of chocolate, factory-made and homemade sweets, baked goods, drinks - in all cases when it is necessary to add sweetness and taste to desserts. There are virtually no adverse reactions to this product, which makes carob bean derivatives a versatile ingredient. At the same time, the benefits of carob are obvious:

Antioxidant action. Carob substances neutralize free radicals that destroy skin cells and age it. Cocoa has a similar effect, but not everyone can consume it.
Women during pregnancy and breastfeeding can safely replace their usual coffee and cocoa with carob drink and chocolate.
The sweet taste of carob is due to the presence of fructose and sucrose. These sugars are allowed in moderation even in diabetes, since the glucose level when consumed increases slowly and slightly. There is no need to sweeten drinks and dishes containing carob with refined sugar.
Carob contains very little fat, so products are stored for a long time and do not acquire a rancid taste.
Even carob powder contains fiber in small quantities. Thanks to it, digestion is improved, the intestines are cleansed of toxins and harmful substances.
Ceratonia fruits are slightly astringent, but the substances that impart an astringent taste act as an antiseptic and cure diarrhea.
The ability to reduce appetite makes carob an invaluable tool for weight loss. Substitute unroasted or lightly roasted powder for sugar, and in a few weeks you can effortlessly lose a few pounds.

The sweetness of carob depends on the degree of roasting: raw dried fruits are much sweeter than roasted ones. If you have diabetes, it is advisable to stick to dark brown, deeply roasted carob.

Carob candies.

Carob products

Currently, carob is very popular not only in places where carob grows naturally. Products made from sweet pods are used by people seeking a healthy lifestyle, athletes, diabetics; parents prefer to give their children chocolate and drinks made from environmentally friendly and healthy carob. The pleasant taste and aroma attract more and more fans.

Pods

Dried pods are stored for a long time without losing their beneficial properties. Tea and a delicious drink reminiscent of cocoa are brewed from crushed pods ground in a coffee grinder.

Powder

Powder made from raw and roasted pods is commercially available. The raw powder is very sweet and light in color, but it doesn't taste like chocolate. When lightly roasted, carob acquires sourness and caramel flavor. Medium-roasted, dark chocolate-colored, bitter powder - it is usually used for making homemade sweets and baked goods.

Syrup (pekmez, bekmes)

Sweet syrup is prepared without adding refined sugar. This natural sweetener is in high demand; it is poured over desserts and added to tea and other drinks. A natural product rich in taste is often chosen when you need to lose weight - adding pekmez to food and drink reduces appetite.

Where can I buy carob

Carob, which not all adherents of a healthy lifestyle, vegetarians and nutritionists knew about ten years ago, is conquering markets. Today, carob powder, pods and syrup can be found not only in specialized stores selling organic products and sports nutrition, but also in ordinary hyper- and supermarkets. Almost always, products made from ceratonia beans are available in tea and coffee shops and on counters with oriental spices. If there are vegan or raw food stores in your city, you are likely to find quality products from reliable suppliers.

There are offers for the sale of carob products on the websites of Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian online stores. To ensure that the selected product does not disappoint, study consumer reviews and try several types of carob powder and syrup.