Blackstrap Molasses is a viscous, thick, dark sticky liquid that is left after boiling sugarcane.

It is not sickly sweet, or too bitter, but has a deep flavour that may take some getting used to. It is nutrient rich; still having all the nutrients absorbed by the plant. Manganese, Iron, copper, magnesium, potassium are just some of the minerals it contains.

It is a must have in my kitchen. I get mine from Eastnat Foods.

They are having a sale at the moment on blackstrap molasses as well as their other products. Visit their site https://eastnatfoods.com to check what else is on offer. The store is located in Nairobi, and one can shop online from their website as well as inquire if they can deliver to your location.

I use blackstrap molasses for so many things:-

• Marinade : For meats such as chicken and pork.
• Sauce: To add to fried meats.
• Hair mask: I use it as a pre poo treatment for my natural hair, with a bit of cocoa butter, or coconut oil. It reduces frizz, makes hair soft and easier to detangle.
• Tonic; I like putting some into a glass of warm water and drink first thing in the morning a few times a week. Sometimes I add some apple cider vinegar or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Smoothies. Just a little bit goes a long way, but it does add an interesting depth of flavour to naturally sweet smoothies.
• Baking; Cookies and savoury dishes.

When using it, one has to be careful as the flavour is really strong for some, and a little goes a long way. It also doesn’t spoil fast, just store it in a cool, dry place, it will last ages.

I use it in making my Sweet and Sticky Wings, and my Pineapple, ginger and honey chicken recipes, which are already up here on the blog.

I also mix it with some ketchup, honey to make a kind of barbecue sauce that’s perfect for sautéed sausage.

As a tonic, I usually take a tbsp with same amount of Apple cider vinegar in a large glass of warm water first thing in the morning. It is an iron boosting tonic, and cleansing too, it will push all that stuck food in your gut out. (bye bye constipation).

As a face mask, I just use a bit when washing my face then cleanse with warm water. For hair, I mix it with some melted cocoa butter (which I also get from Eastnat limited). Apply on my hair for 15-20 minutes, then give it a good wash.

How do you use your blackstrap molasses?