March 15, 2011

Agave Nectar

Agave Nectar is a natural sweetener similar to honey but not as thick. 
Agave Nectar is also sometimes called Agave syrup which comes from 
the Agave plant which also makes tequila. The plant is cultivated in 
Mexico from the volcanic soils it grows on. The plants are spikey 
resembling a cactus or even more similar to an Aloe Vera plant.

Agave plants come in many sizes and colors —
well over 100 species. The Blue Agave has the highest 

carbohydrate content which allows for the highest percentage 
of fructose in the final nectar when
it is cultivated.

Agave nectar is about one and a half times sweeter than sugar.
Agave nectar is often substituted for sugar or honey in recipes.
Agave is commonly used as a Vegan alternative to honey in cooking.
It also dissolves quickly, so it is nice to use as a sweetener for
cold beverages such as coffee or iced tea.


Juan is harvesting the large plant by cutting the spikey blades off.