Description: Mesquite meal, or flour, is made by grinding the seeds and pods of the mesquite tree into rather coarse granules, similar in texture to date sugar or sucanat. It is low on the glycemic index and high in fiber and protein. Mesquite is especially effective at stabilizing blood sugar levels. It is a great source of manganese, potassium, and zinc.
What to look for: Organic.
Uses: Mesquite meal can be used as flour or a spice, thickener and sweetener. You can substitute mesquite meal for flour in most recipes, using up to 30% of the total flour called for. It adds a sweet, smoky, chocolate/coffee flavor. As a spice it can be added to fish, chicken, stir-fry, eggs, breads, and soups.
Where to find: Health Food Store, online resources.
Avoid: Inorganic.