How to Use Stevia Plant

Stevia plant, also known as sweetleaf, sweet herb or sugarleaf, is a natural sweetener that contains zero calories and is about 100 to 300 times sweeter than sugar. Stevia is widely used in the food industry as a sugar substitute and is becoming increasingly popular as a natural sweetener for people who are looking for a healthier lifestyle. In this article, we will introduce how to use stevia plant to sweeten your food and beverages.

1. Stevia Leaves

Stevia leaves are the most natural form of stevia and can be used in many ways to add sweetness to food and beverages. You can easily make your stevia leaves by growing a plant in your garden or buying dried leaves from a health food store.

To make stevia leaves, simply crush them into a fine powder or use the whole leaves to sweeten your tea, coffee or other beverages. Stevia leaves can also be used to sweeten oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies.

2. Stevia Powder

Stevia powder is widely available in grocery stores and health food stores. It's a concentrated form of stevia extract and is a popular sugar substitute. Stevia powder can be used to sweeten tea, coffee, smoothies, and many other foods and desserts.

When using stevia powder, it's important to remember that it's much sweeter than sugar. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Avoid using too much, as it can have a bitter aftertaste.

3. Stevia Liquid Extract

Stevia liquid extract is another popular form of stevia and is available in most grocery stores. It's made by extracting the sweet compounds from the stevia plant and dissolving it in a liquid, such as water or alcohol.

Stevia liquid extract is very versatile and can be used to sweeten beverages, desserts, and other foods. It's also a great option for people who prefer a liquid sweetener.

4. Stevia in Baking

Stevia can also be used in baking, but it can be a little tricky due to its sweetness level. Stevia is much sweeter than sugar, so you'll need to adjust your recipe accordingly. It's best to use a recipe that's specifically designed for stevia or a stevia/sugar blend.

When baking with stevia, it's important to use the right amount. Too much can result in a bitter aftertaste, while too little can result in a lack of sweetness. Experiment with different amounts to find the right balance.

In conclusion, stevia plant is a great natural sweetener that can be used in many ways to add sweetness to your food and beverages. Whether you prefer stevia leaves, powder, or liquid extract, there are many options available to suit your needs. Just remember to use it in moderation and adjust your recipe accordingly, and you'll be able to enjoy the sweetness of stevia without any guilt.