Molasses

• Use molasses as a key ingredient in gingerbread cookies, cakes, and other baked goods to impart a warm, spiced flavor and a moist, chewy texture. Blackstrap molasses adds a particularly deep and intense flavor to these recipes.
• Create flavorful sauces and marinades for meats and vegetables by incorporating molasses for a touch of sweetness, depth, and a glossy glaze. It works well with barbecue sauces, glazes for ham, and marinades for grilled vegetables.
• Add molasses to homemade baked beans for a classic, rich, and slightly sweet flavor profile. It complements the savory notes of the beans and other ingredients, creating a well-balanced dish.
• Sweeten and add a unique flavor dimension to oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies with a drizzle of molasses. It's a healthier alternative to refined sugar and provides essential minerals.
• Use molasses to create delicious homemade candies, such as molasses taffy or hard candies, for a delightful treat with a distinctive flavor and chewy texture.
• Incorporate molasses into homemade bread recipes, especially dark breads like pumpernickel or rye, for added moisture, a subtle sweetness, and a deeper, richer flavor.

• Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Good source of iron, supporting healthy red blood cell production and energy levels.
• Contains calcium and magnesium, essential for bone health and muscle function.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels due to its lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars.
• Provides trace minerals like potassium, beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
• Can act as a prebiotic, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

Store molasses in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Unopened, it can last for years at room temperature. Once opened, it's best to refrigerate molasses to maintain its consistency and prevent spoilage, though it's generally shelf-stable even at room temperature for an extended period. Be sure to seal the container tightly to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.