Agave nectar (or agave syrup) is a natural sweetener made from the core of an agave plant. It’s popping up in many places these days and changing the way people sweeten foods and drinks. (The nectar is being substituted for white sugar and artificial sweeteners in recipes and even tea.)

In both look and taste, agave might best be compared to honey. However, the sweetener actually has different origins and a few notable advantages over its bee-induced look-alike.

Agaves are large, spiky plants that resemble cactus and are most often found in Southern Mexico. Agave nectar is produced by filtering and heating juice from the core of an agave plant and turning it into simple sugars in a concentrated, syrup-like liquid. It ranges in color from light to amber to dark and varies in flavor from mild to strong, with dark agave tasting more like maple syrup.

With a relatively low-glycemic index, it is ideal for individuals concerned with blood-sugar levels. Agave also will not crystallize easily and has a lengthy shelf life. (So unlike honey, it refrains from hardening in the cupboard.) Plus, agave pours and dissolves quickly and can be used in iced tea and a variety of cooking concoctions.

Agave can be used for everything from pancake toppings to fruit drizzle to the perfect sweetener in your morning coffee. (You can even try it at our PeRx counter!)

It important to purchase agave from a trusted source and to be sure the product is made without chemicals. We sell 100% pure Madhava organic agave nectar in our store and since it qualifies for our loyalty program, you get 10% off every purchase.

Ready to give it a whirl? Try it in this delicious recipe for Strawberry-Rhubarb Topping.