Golden syrup is a staple ingredient in many British desserts and baking recipes, but what happens when you find yourself in a foreign country, like France, and you’re craving that sweet, golden goodness?
Fear not, because we’re here to answer the question: can you buy golden syrup in France?
In this article, we’ll explore the availability of this iconic syrup in France and where you might be able to find it.
So, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the world of golden syrup!
Can You Buy Golden Syrup In France?
The short answer is yes, you can buy golden syrup in France. While it may not be as readily available as it is in the UK, there are still options for those who are looking to get their hands on this sweet treat.
One option is to check out specialty food stores or British import shops. These types of stores often carry a variety of British products, including golden syrup. You may also be able to find it at larger supermarkets or hypermarkets that have an international section.
If you’re having trouble finding golden syrup in-store, you can always turn to online shopping. Many online retailers offer international shipping, so you can have golden syrup delivered right to your doorstep in France.
What Is Golden Syrup And Why Is It Popular In British Cuisine?
Golden syrup, also known as light treacle, is a thick and amber-colored syrup that is a staple in British cuisine. It is made by refining sugar cane or sugar beet juice into sugar, or by treating a sugar solution with acid. The resulting syrup has a deep caramelized, buttery flavor that is distinct from other sweeteners like honey and corn syrup.
Golden syrup has been used in British baking for over a century and is an essential ingredient in many traditional British desserts such as gingerbreads, steamed sponge cakes, and toffees. It is also popular in Australia and New Zealand. The syrup’s versatility extends far beyond desserts and can be used as a substitute for honey or simple syrup in cocktails or stirred into oatmeal or yogurt with fresh or dried fruit.
Lyle’s Golden Syrup, the most well-known brand of golden syrup, has been sold in Great Britain since 1885 and is recognized by Guinness World Records as having the world’s oldest branding and packaging. The iconic green and gold cans have remained consistent in design for nearly 140 years.
While golden syrup may not be as well-known outside of the UK, it has gained popularity among food enthusiasts around the world for its unique flavor and versatility in cooking and baking.
Where To Find Golden Syrup In France?
If you’re specifically looking for a physical store to purchase golden syrup in France, your best bet would be to check out specialty food stores or British import shops. These types of stores often carry a variety of British products, including golden syrup. Some examples of these stores include The Real McCoy, Marks & Spencer Food Hall, and Piccadilly Time.
Another option is to check out larger supermarkets or hypermarkets that have an international section. Carrefour, Auchan, and Leclerc are some examples of supermarkets that may carry golden syrup in their international section.
If you’re unable to find golden syrup in-store, you can always turn to online shopping. Amazon France offers a variety of golden syrup options for delivery, as well as other online retailers such as British Corner Shop and The English Shop. Keep in mind that shipping times and costs may vary.
Alternatives To Golden Syrup For Baking In France
If you’re unable to find golden syrup in France or simply prefer to use a different sweetener in your baking, there are several alternatives that can be used in its place. One option is to use light corn syrup, which has a similar consistency and can be substituted in a 1:1 ratio. However, it’s important to note that light corn syrup does not have the same flavor as golden syrup, so your final product may taste slightly different.
Another option is to use honey, which can also be substituted in a 1:1 ratio. Honey has a unique flavor that can add depth to your baked goods, but it’s important to choose a mild-flavored variety so that it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.
Maple syrup is another alternative that can be used in a 1:1 substitution. It has a distinct flavor that works well in certain recipes, but it can be more expensive than other options.
Brown rice syrup is a less common alternative that can be used in a 1:1 substitution. It has a mild flavor and is less sweet than golden syrup, so it may not work well in all recipes.
Tips For Baking With Golden Syrup In France.
If you’re new to baking with golden syrup in France, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, it’s important to note that golden syrup is sweeter and has a more complex flavor than traditional sugar. This means that you may need to adjust your recipes accordingly.
When substituting golden syrup for sugar in a recipe, use about 25% less syrup than you would sugar. This will help prevent your baked goods from becoming too sweet or sticky.
Golden syrup also has a higher moisture content than sugar, which can affect the texture of your baked goods. To compensate for this, you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in your recipe or add extra flour.
When using golden syrup in recipes that call for honey or molasses, keep in mind that the flavors are not interchangeable. Golden syrup has a distinct buttery flavor that pairs well with desserts like flapjacks, cookies, and treacle sponges.
Finally, if you’re looking to make your own golden syrup at home, it’s important to be patient and not rush the process. Low simmer the mixture until the desired color and flavor is achieved for a complex caramel flavor.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to incorporate golden syrup into your French baking with ease and create deliciously sweet and sticky treats.
