Carob Benefits
Carob (Ceratonia siliqua), also called locust bean and St. Johns's Bread, is actually a legume from the same family as peas and beans. It is grown in eastern Mediterranean countries, such as Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Italy and Malta. It is used as an alternative to cocoa and chocolate, and as a thickener (locust bean gum) in cosmetics, commercially processed ice cream, salad dressing, cheese, luncheon meat, canned meat and bakery products. Both the beans and pods are edible, and the pods are used to feed cattle, horses, pigs and goats. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The word "carob" is derived from an Arab word "kharrub," meaning "bean pod." The trees grow well in harsh climates and poor soil, and are also resistant to drought. Mediterranean peasants have relied on them as food during times of famine. Since carob beans are also known as locust beans, biblical scholars believe that they are the true "locusts" that St. John the Baptist lived on. The Moors cultivated carob trees in northern Africa and Spain. The Spanish conquistadors brought them to South America, and the British brought them to Australia, India and South Africa.
Therapeutic Benefits
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Carob contains vitamins A, B, B1, B2, B3, B6, D; calcium; iron; potassium; magnesium; manganese; and about 8 percent protein. It's also very rich in fiber and pectin, and low in sodium. One tablespoon of carob powder contains two grams of fiber and one cup contains about 40 grams. Pectin helps to eliminate toxins from the body.
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Use as a Chocolate Alternative
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Carob does not contain theobromine, caffeine, phenylethylamine or fromamide, stimulants in commercial chocolate that can cause migraines and allergic reactions in some people and are toxic to dogs and cats. It also does not contain oxalic acid, which hinders absorption of calcium and zinc.Carob has a natural, mild, sweet taste of its own, so it doesn't need much sugar to sweeten it. For those who don't like chocolate or are allergic or sensitive to it, carob powder is a great substitute for cocoa powder in any recipe. Dogs and cats can also safely eat carob.
Other Uses
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Warm milk can help you sleep better, and adding carob makes it more flavorful. In a ceramic mug, mix 1 tbsp. of carob powder with 1/4 tsp. of honey or vanilla extract. Pour in one cup or more of warm milk, and stir until blended. Since carob doesn't contain caffeine, this warm milk concoction is very soothing.
Tips
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Carob doesn't have as much flavor as chocolate, so it is best used in recipes with other flavorful ingredients.
Carob powder will keep up to a year in a cool, dry place.
When using carob powder in place of cocoa powder for a recipe, reduce the sugar by one fourth or one half, as carob is naturally sweet.
If lumps form in carob powder (flour), sift it before using.
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