Barley malt syrup

Barley Malt Syrup is a sweetener derived from sprouted, or malted, barley. It is a thick, dark, slow-digesting syrup that is used in a variety of baking and cooking applications.

History

The use of barley for malt dates back to the earliest civilizations in Asia and North Africa. It was used in the production of beer and bread, and was a staple in the diets of these early societies. The process of malting barley to create syrup is believed to have been discovered by the Sumerians and Babylonians.

Production

Barley malt syrup is produced by soaking and sprouting barley grains in a process known as malting. The grains are then dried and crushed to extract the maltose, a type of sugar. This maltose is then boiled down to create a syrup. The process is labor-intensive and time-consuming, which contributes to the relatively high cost of barley malt syrup compared to other sweeteners.

Culinary Uses

Barley malt syrup is used in a variety of culinary applications. It is often used in the production of bread, particularly in bagels. It is also used in the brewing of beer, where it contributes to the flavor and color of the final product. In addition, it is used as a sweetener in a variety of baked goods and desserts.

Health Benefits

Barley malt syrup is a source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B, magnesium, and potassium. It is also a lower-glycemic alternative to refined sugars, meaning it has a less dramatic impact on blood sugar levels.

See Also

• Malt
• Barley
• Sweeteners
• Baking