Honey: A Versatile and Functional Ingredient

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Americans consume approximately 1.3 pounds of honey per person annually, and they are finding more and more uses for this all-natural ingredient daily. From appetizers to desserts, entrées and beverages, honey adds a wonderful flavor profile to both savory and sweet recipes. More than ever, consumers are appreciating the uniqueness and versatility of honey.

For centuries, honey has been a breakfast staple, but it is now being revered as one of the most versatile ingredients on the market today. Honey not only enhances flavor, but it also provides functionality in the kitchen. All-natural honey can be used as an emulsifier in sauces and dips, as a glaze for meats and vegetables, and as a humectant to attract and retain moisture in baked goods. Honey is also antimicrobial, helping to resist spoilage in baked goods and other items – among many other culinary applications.

Honey not only holds its own as an ingredient, but it also provides balance to dishes – complementing and enhancing a variety of foods. Honey achieves the same level of sweetness as sugar, with less volume. Honey also pairs nicely with citrus, berry and yogurt, along with fermented or pickled products, because honey decreases sourness in certain dishes. Also, honey balances bitter flavors, making it a clear favorite for coffee and tea. Finally, honey modifies salty perception and complements cured products (like ham and bacon) to balances savory tastes.

Honey can easily be substituted for granulated sweetener in your favorite dishes. For sauces, marinades and salad dressings, substitute honey for up to half the granulated sweetener called for in the recipe. When baking, use honey for up to half the granulated sweetener called for in the recipe. In addition, for each cup of honey used, reduce any added liquid by one-fourth cup, add one-half teaspoon of baking soda and reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

The National Honey Board is an industry-funded agriculture promotion group that works to educate consumers about the benefits and uses for honey and honey products through research, marketing and promotional programs.


Name: Jessica Schindler

Phone: 303-776-2337

Email: [email protected]