Pancake Day is one of the most anticipated dates in the culinary calendar. While the traditional combination of white sugar and lemon is a classic, it often leaves us feeling sluggish due to the rapid spike and subsequent drop in blood glucose levels.
At Manuka Lab, we advocate for a "people-first" approach to nutrition. This means choosing ingredients that satisfy your palate while supporting your body. By integrating authentic, New Zealand-sourced Mānuka honey into your Shrove Tuesday celebrations, you can enjoy a more balanced, nutrient-dense meal.
Why Swap Traditional Syrup for Mānuka Honey?
Traditional syrups are often highly processed and provide little more than "empty" calories. In contrast, Mānuka honey is a complex functional food.
Understanding MGO and Bioactive Power
The primary difference between Mānuka honey and standard table honey is the presence of Methylglyoxal (MGO). This is the naturally occurring compound responsible for Mānuka honey’s unique antibacterial activity. When you choose a Manuka Lab product with a certified MGO rating, you are choosing a product that has been tested for its potency and purity.
Nutritional Synergy
Unlike refined sugar, Mānuka honey contains a variety of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It provides a more sustained release of energy, making it an excellent choice for a family breakfast that needs to last until lunchtime.
How to Drizzle Like a Pro: Preserving Honey Integrity
To get the most out of your Manuka Lab honey, you must treat it with care. High heat can damage the delicate enzymes and reduce the efficacy of the MGO.
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The 60-Second Rule: Never add Mānuka honey to a pancake that is still sitting in a sizzling pan. Once you flip your pancake onto a plate, let it sit for approximately one minute. This allows the surface temperature to drop slightly, ensuring the honey’s bioactive properties remain intact when you drizzle it.
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Consistency Matters: If your honey has crystallised (a natural sign of purity), do not microwave it. Instead, place the jar in a bowl of warm, not boiling water for a few minutes until it reaches a pourable consistency.
3 Simple Manuka Lab Pancake Pairings
Upgrade your Shrove Tuesday with these three combinations designed to maximise both flavour and health benefits.
1. The "Immunity Boost" (The Upgraded Classic)
Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, zest, and Manuka Lab MGO 300+.
Why it works: The Vitamin C from the lemon works in tandem with the antimicrobial properties of the honey. It is a sharp, refreshing, and functional take on the British classic.
2. The "Protein Powerhouse"
Ingredients: A dollop of thick Greek yoghurt, crushed walnuts, and Manuka Lab MGO 525+.
Why it works: The fats and proteins in the yoghurt and walnuts slow down the absorption of the natural sugars in the honey even further. This is the ideal choice for those looking for a satiating, muscle-friendly meal.
3. The "Antioxidant Array"
Ingredients: Fresh blueberries, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and a generous drizzle of Mānuka honey.
Why it works: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants. When paired with the prebiotic effects of Mānuka honey, this combination supports both your skin health and your gut microbiome.
Conclusion: A Healthier Tradition
Shrove Tuesday does not have to be a departure from your wellness goals. By making mindful substitutions like swapping refined sugar for Manuka Lab honey, you can create a celebration that feels indulgent yet remains physically rewarding. This year, focus on quality over quantity and enjoy the rich, complex flavours of authentic New Zealand Mānuka.
