First and foremost, you will need fresh carob pods. These pods are typically harvested during late summer or early autumn when they are fully matured. Carob trees are widespread in the Mediterranean region, so if you live in this area or have access to carob pods, you are in luck. Alternatively, you can find carob pods at specialty health food stores or order them online.
To start the process, begin by washing the carob pods thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Next, you will need to chop the cleaned pods into small pieces. This will help to extract the maximum flavor from the carob. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to achieve this.
Once the carob pods are chopped, place them in a large pot and cover them with water. The water should be about two inches above the pods. Bring the pot to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow the mixture to simmer for about two hours, ensuring that the carob pods are fully cooked and softened. This will help to extract the sweetness and flavor from the pods.
After the process, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to separate the liquid from the solids. The resulting liquid is the carob-infused water, which now needs to be reduced to make the syrup.
Pour the carob-infused water back into the pot and place it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning or sticking. As the water heats up, it will begin to reduce, and the color will darken. This process can take several hours, so it’s important to be patient.
When the liquid has reduced significantly and has thickened to a syrup-like consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. As it cools, the syrup will further thicken. Transfer the carob molasses to a sterilized glass jar or bottle, and it is now ready to be used.
Carob molasses has a variety of uses in cooking and baking. It can be enjoyed as a topping on pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. It can also be used as a sweetener in desserts, such as cookies, cakes, or brownies. Additionally, carob molasses can be incorporated into marinades, glazes, or salad dressings, adding a unique flavor to your dishes.
In conclusion, making carob molasses is a simple and rewarding process. By following these steps and using fresh carob pods, you can create a flavorful and versatile natural sweetener. Give it a try and explore the possibilities of this delectable syrup in your culinary creations.