Richters InfoSheet D6030  


Sweetening with Stevia

Stevia is a South American herb with sweet-tasting leaves. The sweetening agents in the leaves are compounds called steviosides. Steviosides are 300 times sweeter than sugar, but they have none of the calories of sugar. Stevia has a slight anise-like taste with a slight bitter overtone that is very acceptable in teas, baked goods, and desserts.

The leaves may be used fresh or dried. Dried leaves may be used whole, powdered or in liquid extract form.

Whole Leaves

The leaves may be used fresh or dried. Drying reduces the slight bitterness quality. Four or five leaves are equal to a teaspoon of sugar.

Finely Ground Powder

One teaspoon ground stevia equals one cup sugar in sweetness. To make a liquid solution, dissolve one teaspoon stevia powder into three tablespoons water. Refrigerate in a dropper bottle.

Liquid Sweetener

To make a liquid extract, steep one teaspoon of dried leaves in one cup boiling water for five minutes. Cool, strain and refrigerate the sweet liquid. Two drops liquid equals one teaspoon sugar in sweetness when made from dried leaves or powder as directed above. Some commercial prepared liquid extracts may differ. Experiment with a few drops at a time to determine your personal preference.

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