100 Grams Brown Rice Syrup, Medium Conversion, Brsmc35 contains 320 calories per serving. This natural sweetener has been gaining popularity recently as a healthier alternative to sugar. In this article, we'll delve into the nutritional benefits and potential health concerns related to brown rice syrup, as well as how to use it in cooking and where to find it.
Brown rice syrup is derived from brown rice and undergoes a process that breaks down the starches to create a sweet liquid. It is high in carbohydrates, with one tablespoon containing approximately 16 grams. It is also a good source of manganese, a mineral important for bone health.
Consuming brown rice syrup in moderation can have several benefits. It has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, meaning it doesn't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It is also free from fructose, making it a good option for those with fructose malabsorption.
What is Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from brown rice. It is created by boiling brown rice and breaking down the starches to create a liquid. The liquid is then strained and heated until it thickens and turns into syrup. It has a similar texture and consistency to honey, but with a less pronounced flavor. Brown rice syrup is a popular ingredient in vegan and gluten-free recipes as it doesn't contain any animal products, gluten, or wheat. It can be used as a substitute for honey, maple syrup or sugar, and is commonly used in baked goods, granola bars, and energy balls.
One tablespoon of brown rice syrup contains approximately 16 grams of carbohydrates and 55 calories. It is also a good source of manganese, providing 22% of the daily recommended intake per tablespoon. Brown rice syrup is low in fat and protein and free from cholesterol and sodium. It is important to note that it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.
Benefits of consuming Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, meaning it doesn't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial for those with diabetes or who are watching their blood sugar levels. It is also free from fructose, making it a good option for those with fructose malabsorption. Additionally, it is a natural sweetener that does not contain any artificial additives or preservatives.
How to use Brown Rice Syrup in cooking
Brown rice syrup can be used as a direct substitute for liquid sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or corn syrup. It has a mild, mellow flavor that pairs well with nut butters, granola, and oatmeal. It can also be used in baking to add moisture and create a chewy texture. When using brown rice syrup in recipes, it is important to note that it is less sweet than regular sugar, and may require additional sweetness from other sources like dates or stevia.
Brown rice syrup is high in carbohydrates and should be consumed in moderation. It is also important to note that brown rice may contain traces of arsenic, a toxic chemical. While brown rice syrup is not a significant source of arsenic, it is still recommended to limit exposure to this chemical by diversifying your diet and choosing a variety of sweeteners.
Why choose Medium Conversion Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup comes in different conversions, referring to how much of the starch has been broken down into glucose. High conversion brown rice syrup has a higher glucose content and is sweeter than medium conversion. Medium conversion brown rice syrup is a good all-purpose sweetener that is not as sweet as high conversion but still has a mild flavor. It can be used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to salad dressings.
Difference between High and Medium Conversion Brown Rice Syrup
High conversion brown rice syrup has a higher glucose content and is sweeter than medium conversion. This makes it a good option for recipes that require a more pronounced sweetness, such as candy or frosting. Medium conversion brown rice syrup is less sweet and has a mild flavor, making it a versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is also less likely to crystallize than high conversion, making it a more stable sweetener over time.
How to store Brown Rice Syrup
Unopened brown rice syrup can be stored at room temperature, but once opened it should be refrigerated to maintain freshness. The syrup may become thicker over time, but can be thinned out by placing the container in warm water or microwaving it in short intervals. It is important to note that the syrup may darken over time, but this does not indicate spoilage or safety concerns.
Alternatives to Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener that is a good alternative to refined sugar, honey, and corn syrup. However, there are several other natural sweeteners that can be used in its place, such as maple syrup, agave nectar, and coconut sugar. Each of these sweeteners has a unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits, so it is important to choose the best one for your recipe and dietary preferences.
Where to buy Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup can be found at most health food stores, as well as some grocery stores and online retailers. Look for brands that use organic brown rice and avoid brands that list high fructose corn syrup or other artificial ingredients. Some popular brands include Lundberg Family Farms, Pure Harvest, and Dynasty.
Choosing brown rice syrup as a natural sweetener can offer several health benefits, but it should still be consumed in moderation. Look for brands that use organic brown rice and choose a medium conversion syrup for a versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of recipes.
FAQs about Brown Rice Syrup
1. What is brown rice syrup?
Brown rice syrup is a sweetener made from brown rice that has been fermented with enzymes to break down the starches and create a sweet syrup.
2. What is medium conversion brown rice syrup?
Medium conversion brown rice syrup is a type of brown rice syrup that is partially broken down to create a thick, syrupy texture and a moderate level of sweetness.
3. How many calories are in 100 grams of medium conversion brown rice syrup?
There are 320 calories in 100 grams of medium conversion brown rice syrup.
4. Is brown rice syrup a healthy sweetener?
Brown rice syrup is a better alternative to white sugar as it has a lower glycemic index, meaning it does not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. It also contains some minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. However, it is still a source of added sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
5. How can brown rice syrup be used?
Brown rice syrup can be used as a sweetener in baking, cooking, and beverages. It is commonly used in vegan and gluten-free recipes as a substitute for honey or maple syrup. It can also be drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt as a topping.