Sweetener | Vegan Gluten Free Keto Diabetic Low Carbohydrate

Stevia

Stevia rebaudiana (often refers to whole leaf or less refined extracts) Allergen-Free
Stevia

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Stevia plant leaves

The Forktionary Angle

"From ancient herb to modern global sweetener, Stevia represents a significant shift towards natural, low-calorie alternatives in our diets."

Definition

A natural sweetener from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, offering zero calories and intense sweetness, often in less refined forms than 'Stevia Powder'.

Sensory Profile

TasteIntense sweet, Herbal, Sometimes slight licorice aftertaste
TextureDried leaf (coarse or fine), Liquid extract
AromaHerbal, Slight
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Non-Glycemic Index

0 (Does not raise blood sugar)

Origin

Paraguay & Brazil

Sweetening Compounds

Steviol Glycosides

Nutrition Facts

Per 0.5 g (1/4 tsp)
Calories0 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a homemade liquid stevia, simmer dried stevia leaves in water, then strain. This allows for precise measurement in beverages without the powdery residue.

Substitutions

Best Match

Monk Fruit Sweetener

1:1

Natural, zero-calorie, intense sweetness, often with less aftertaste.

Erythritol

1:1 (by volume for bulk, adjust for sweetness)

Zero-calorie, no blood sugar impact, but less sweet than pure stevia.

Xylitol

1:1 (by volume for bulk)

Similar sweetness to sugar, but lower calorie; toxic to dogs.

Agave Nectar

1:2 (half the amount)

Natural, sweeter than sugar, but contains calories and affects blood sugar.

Buying Guide

Be aware that "Stevia" can refer to whole leaves, liquid extracts, or highly refined powders. Understand the product's concentration.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee tea herbal infusions fruit salads sugar-free desserts.

Recipes Using Stevia

Almond Power Bar image 133
Easy European Cuisine To Go

Almond Power Bar

Fuel your body with these decadent, no-bake Almond Power Bars! Inspired by Melissa Diane Smith's Amaretto Protein Bars, this recipe is a cinch to make and packed with protein and fiber. Imagine crunchy almonds, chewy coconut, and a rich dark chocolate topping (optional, but highly recommended!). These bars are perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout treat. Skip the chocolate for a lighter version, but we highly recommend indulging in the antioxidant-rich dark chocolate goodness! Get the full recipe and detailed instructions here!

See Complete Recipe
Banana Bomb image 151
Breakfast 3 Steps Or Less Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less

Banana Bomb

Fuel your morning with this explosive Banana Bomb Smoothie! This high-calorie, delicious blend is packed with potassium and natural sweetness, perfect for a quick and energizing breakfast. Get ready for a taste bud adventure!

See Complete Recipe