Created by bees from the nectar of tupelo trees, tupelo honey is a specialty product that can really only be found in Florida and parts of Georgia. The honey's unique, lightly sweet flavor is delicious, but it's also known for its health benefits. Tupelo honey is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, and as such, it can help ease the symptoms of asthma, arthritis, and a wide range of other conditions. However, since these properties are thought to come from the pollen granules contained in the honey, the honey cannot be heated before use. Here are some ways you can use tupelo honey without heating it, thereby taking full advantage of its health benefits.
Yogurt and Honey Fruit Dip
On a warm summer day, dipping fruit into a mixture of honey and yogurt is so satisfying. Mix one tablespoon of tupelo honey into about 8 ounces of plain yogurt. Use Greek yogurt if you want a thicker dip. If you desire, you can also stir in a sprinkle of cinnamon. Dip whole strawberries, slices of banana, slices of apple, and even orange segments into the yogurt and honey dip for a healthy and delicious snack.
Honey on Biscuits
If you really like your honey warm, this is a good way to enjoy it. The warm biscuit will soften and slightly warm the tupelo honey without getting it warm enough to denature the pollen. Just warm your favorite biscuit in a toaster oven until it's warm to the touch, but not hot. Cut it in half, spread on a little butter, and add a drizzle of the tupelo honey. You can do the same with a dinner roll, if desired.
Honey Salad Dressing
Tupelo honey is the perfect ingredient to round out a salad dressing. Its light sweetness contrasts with the taste of vinegar really well without being overwhelmingly sweet. You can make a simple salad dressing by combining 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and a teaspoon of tupelo honey. For a salad dressing with a bit more character and body, add in a teaspoon of prepared Dijon mustard and a pinch of garlic powder. Taste the dressing, and add a little more tupelo honey if it is not quite sweet enough for you.
When you buy quality tupelo honey, you really don't want to limit its healing properties by heating it up. Instead, use it in some of the ways suggested above.
