10 Astonishing Honey Facts and Delicious Recipes You'll Cherish Forever

Raw honey retains its natural enzymes, pollen, and beneficial compounds, making it a preferred choice over processed honey for maximum flavour and health benefits. This unpasteurised gold is not only rich in trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and beneficial enzymes, but it also boasts a lower glycemic index than sugar, ranging from 35 to 55.

The flavour profile of raw honey can vary depending on the season. Spring honey, with its light, floral notes, is best for tea and light desserts, while summer honey, with its robust flavours from herbs and diverse wildflowers, is perfect for marinades and glazes. Autumn honey, known for its rich, complex taste, is ideal for baking and cheese pairings. Winter honey, stored from previous seasons and often crystallised, is perfect for spreading on toast.

Supporting local beekeepers is not just about enjoying the unique flavour profiles of single-origin honey sources. It also helps native bee populations, traditional beekeeping practices, local biodiversity, regional food systems, and sustainable agriculture. Knowing your local producer's details is essential for ensuring that your honey is sourced ethically and sustainably.

When it comes to storage, honey should be kept in airtight glass containers, at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight, and using clean, dry utensils to prevent contamination. Refrigerating honey can cause crystallisation, but this does not indicate spoilage.

Here are some delicious recipes that make the most of raw honey's health benefits and flavour:

No-Bake Honey Oat Bars: Prepare in just 15 minutes, chill for 2 hours, and enjoy 12 bars of sweet, nutty goodness.
Honey Lemon Dressing: Whip up this zesty dressing in just 5 minutes for a refreshing salad dressing.
Honey-Glazed Chicken Thighs: Cook up these succulent chicken thighs in 45 minutes for a scrumptious dinner that serves 4.
Honey-Roasted Vegetables: Roast your favourite vegetables in honey for a sweet and savoury side dish that serves 6.

While most adults can safely consume 1-2 tablespoons of honey daily, people with diabetes should consume honey sparingly and monitor their blood glucose levels. It's also worth noting that ultra-clear appearance, added ingredients, no country of origin, and suspiciously smooth texture are red flags for processed honey.

In conclusion, raw honey is not just a sweet addition to your diet; it's a health-conscious choice that supports sustainable agriculture and offers a variety of flavour profiles to suit any taste. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the natural goodness of raw honey today?