What Is Acacia Honey?

 

Of all the honeys I’ve tasted, I’d have to say that Acacia honey is right up there in terms of what really makes me happy :-)    What is the best honey in the world? Many consider it to be just that!  Read all about this amazing honey below and see if it tempts you to run out and buy a jar.

 

Because of its pale color, you can see honeycomb through the jar of Acacia Honey

 

What Are Its Characteristics? 

 

This honey is very pale.  If it hasn’t been mixed with other floral sources, it will look like liquid glass, very exquisite indeed.   It has a mild, sweet, floral flavor, and is, therefore, one of the most popular honey varieties.   It is a good choice for mixing with beverages because it sweetens without changing the taste of the drink.   It is also an excellent choice for cooking because of its mild flavor and because it mixes easily in liquids and batters.  It has hints of vanilla flavor and no aftertaste.

 

Acacia honey is slow to crystallize.  This means that it can remain in a liquid state for a long period of time due to its high concentration of fructose.

 

Where Does Acacia Honey Come From?

 

Interestingly enough, there is quite a bit of confusion about where this honey actually comes from.  Acacia honey is from the black locust tree, (also  called  “false” Acacia) native to North America.  This tree  is also found in Europe, and in this region, it is called Acacia, although the honey does not come from true acacias.   In fact, in America, this honey is sometimes labeled Black Locust or American Acacia.

 

Are There Any Medicinal Benefits?

 

Yes, there are many.    Inspite of its sweetness, Acacia honey has a very low sucrose content and a high fructose level, so it is the best choice for diabetics.   It is known for its therapeutic qualities because it cleanses the liver, conditions the intestines, and is beneficial for the respiratory system due to antibacterial properties -  another benefit of honey.

 

What is unique about this honey?

 

You’ll often see cut honeycomb in the Acacia honey jar since its clarity and pale color allow the comb to be seen through the jar.  Because of its mild flavor, it can easily be blended with other types of honey.

 

So, as you can see, Acacia honey has quite an impressive “resume”.  But, my friend, the only way to find out if it’s the best honey in the world, is to taste it.  :-)

 

One of my favorite ways to use this honey is on a piece of crusty bread.  I will usually split the loaf, toast the bread to a golden color, and then slather a dollop of rich, creamy butter on top.  Then I will drizzle Acacia honey over this tasty, earthy treat.  Yummy.  I like to eat it with a hunk of salty cheese and a glass of wine……. heaven…..

 

How many of you have ever tasted Acacia honey?  Do you think it is the best honey in the world?  If not, what is the best honey in the world, in your opinion?  Leave a comment below