What Is Rapadura Sugar? A Guide to This Delicious and Nutritious Sweetener
Rapadura sugar is a type of unrefined cane sugar that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is often touted as a healthier alternative to regular sugar, thanks to its natural production process and nutrient-rich profile. In this article, we'll take a closer look at rapadura sugar, its benefits, and how to use it in your cooking and baking.
What is rapadura sugar?
Rapadura sugar is made from sugarcane juice that has been boiled and dehydrated, resulting in a golden-brown, ungranulated sugar with a rich molasses flavor. Unlike refined white sugar, which undergoes a chemical process to remove impurities, rapadura sugar is minimally processed, allowing it to retain its natural nutrients and minerals.
What are the benefits of rapadura sugar?
One of the main benefits of rapadura sugar is its nutrient-rich profile. Because it is unrefined, it contains vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as antioxidants that are not present in refined white sugar. Rapadura sugar is also low glycemic, meaning it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels compared to regular sugar, making it a good choice for those with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
How to use rapadura sugar in your cooking and baking?
Rapadura sugar (also called panela depending on the country you are in) can be used in the same way as regular sugar in cooking and baking, with some slight adjustments. Because it has a more complex flavor profile than regular sugar, it can add depth and richness to baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and bread. It can also be used in marinades, dressings, and sauces to add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
One thing to keep in mind when using rapadura sugar is that it tends to clump and harden more easily than regular sugar due to its high moisture content. To prevent this, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Rapadura sugar is a delicious and nutritious sweetener that can be a great alternative to regular sugar in your cooking and baking. Its natural production process and nutrient-rich profile make it a popular choice for those looking to make healthier and more sustainable food choices. Nowadays rapadura sugar is available in most Australia supermarkets and health food stores.
In our cookies we use rapadura sugar from South America, made from organically grown sugar cane, mostly through fair trade programs in Colombia, Sri Lanka, Brazil and Paraguay. Unbleached and unrefined, you can taste the difference in our cookies!