Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It is available throughout the year, with variations in flavor and color depending on the season and the source of the nectar. Honey is a versatile ingredient used in a myriad of culinary applications, from sweetening beverages and baking to glazing meats and dressing salads. It is a prominent ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes, where it adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.

Honey Synonyms

Liquid gold
Bee's nectar
Sweet dew

Honey Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Honey

Raw

Honey in its purest form, extracted from the beehive and strained to remove impurities. It can vary in color and flavor depending on the flowers visited by the bees.

Comb

Honey sold as it is in the beeswax comb, often enjoyed as a spread or chewed like gum for its natural flavors and textures.

Liquid

Honey that has been pasteurized and filtered to a clear, pourable consistency. It's the most common form found in stores.

Creamed

Honey that has been processed to control crystallization, resulting in a smooth, spreadable texture.

Infused

Honey that has been flavored with additional ingredients such as herbs, spices, or fruit essences.

Whipped

Honey that has been mechanically processed to incorporate air, making it light and creamy.

How to Choose Honey

When choosing honey, consider its color, aroma, and flavor profile, which should reflect the floral sources the bees visited. Opt for raw or unprocessed honey for a more robust flavor. Look for honey that is transparent and free from excessive crystallization, unless you are purchasing creamed honey. Local honey is often recommended for its potential to support local agriculture and for its unique regional flavors. Check the label for purity, as some honey may be adulterated with syrups.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Honey

Honey is a versatile sweetener that can add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to consider the flavor profile of the honey being used, as it can range from mild and floral to dark and robust. When cooking with honey, be mindful of its sugar content; it can burn easily if exposed to high heat for too long. To prevent this, honey is often added to dishes at the end of the cooking process or used in recipes that cook at lower temperatures. Additionally, honey can be used as a sugar substitute in baking, but adjustments may need to be made to the recipe, such as reducing liquids or adding a bit of baking soda to balance acidity.

Shelf Life of Honey

Honey should be stored in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. It can last for years without spoiling, but may crystallize over time. If crystallization occurs, gently warm the honey in a hot water bath to return it to a liquid state. Do not refrigerate honey, as this accelerates the crystallization process. Keep honey away from strong odors to prevent it from absorbing unwanted flavors.

Recommended Brands for Honey

raw honey: Manuka Health

liquid honey: Nature Nate's

creamed honey: Wedderspoon

infused honey: Savannah Bee Company

Cooking Techniques for Honey

Baking: Incorporate honey into baked goods for natural sweetness and moisture. When substituting honey for sugar, use less honey than sugar, as it is sweeter and reduce other liquids in the recipe by about 1/4.

Glazing: Honey is an excellent glaze for meats and vegetables. Brush it on towards the end of the cooking process to create a sweet, caramelized crust without burning the honey.

Raw Applications: Honey's complexity shines in raw applications, such as dressings, marinades, or as a drizzle on desserts and cheeses. It adds a nuanced sweetness without the need for cooking.