Roasted Carob Powder

Trivia: Did you know that the unit “carat” used for weighing precious metals and stones is derived from “carob,” alluding to the ancient practice of weighing gold and gems against the seeds of the carob tree? The carob tree, also called St. John’s-bread, which grows along the Mediterranean Sea, produces 30cm reddish brown pods. After the seeds are removed, the pulp of the pods are dried, roasted and ground into a dark brown, naturally sweet, rich flavored powder — carob powder. Lower in calories, zero fat and caffeine free, carob powder is a healthier alternative to cocoa.