Sugar in the Raw is a minimally processed cane sugar with a rich, molasses flavor. It’s a natural alternative to refined white sugar for baking and be
Sugar in the Raw
People have been using sugar for quite a long time. But now people are inclined towards less process and more natural alternatives. So raw sugar has gained popularity in the recent years which comes from raw sugar cane. As we know that this sugar is considered healthy as compared to white sugar. This is because it is minimal processed and has a natural flavor. Today we will understand what is raw sugar and how it is made. We will also discuss its health benefits, its uses including cooking, baking and some other things that must be kept in mind before making it a part of your diet.
What is Sugar in the Raw?
Sugar in the Raw is the natural or minimally refined sugar. It is made from sugarcane or sugar beets. It is not processed like the white sugar and is minimally processed which gives it a golden brown color. Some of the natural minerals and nutrients in the sugarcane are kept including calcium, potassium and iron.
Sugar in the raw or turbinado sugar is a well known product and is a type of raw sugar cane. It means that this type of sugar is minimally processed. The sugar crystals are washed, spun in a machine to dry them which leaves behind big, rough crystals.
It tastes stronger and richer than the white sugar because it has molasses. This gives it a bit of caramel flavor.
How Sugar in the Raw is Made
The process of making Sugar in the Raw is relatively simple compared to the production of white sugar. Here’s a breakdown of how this sugar is produced:
Harvesting the Cane or Beets: The main regions of sugarcane productions are tropical areas. Although sugar beets are cultivated in cold climates. After harvesting the plants they are moved to processing mills.
Extraction of Juice: The sugarcane that are harvested are now crushed to get the juice which is the main source of sugar. The juice is then cleaned to remove impurities.
Boiling the Juice: The filtered juice is now heated until it becomes thick like a syrup. The syrup is cooled to get crystals.
Crystallization and Separation: This is the stage in which sugar crystals start to form. The are purified from the remaining molasses. However in brown sugar some of the molasses are kept. This is the reason that raw sugar has unique brown color and flavor.
Drying and Packaging: The sugar crystals are dries using a spinning machine. This machine removes excess water content from sugar. This gives thick, golden-brown sugar that is ideal for people.
Raw sugar is less processed as compared to white sugar. This is the best for people who like to stay healthy.
Considerations: Is Sugar in the Raw Healthier?
There a some differences between raw sugar and white sugar. The important point here is that both differences are about calorie content and how they affect the body. Now let us discuss about some of the differences and health impacts of these types of sugars:
Nutrient Content: Raw sugar has molasses which means that it has nutrients such as calcium, potassium and iron. But these nutrients are found in very small amounts. For example to find a bit amount of iron you need to eat a large quantity of sugar which is not healthy.
Glycemic Index: Both white and raw sugar have similar glycemix index which means they both raise blood sugar levels at the same rate. The GI of raw sugar is about 65 but that of white sugar is between 65-70. So, raw sugar can still cause a quick increase in blood glucose and so it can be concerning for diabetics.
- Caloric Content: Both sugar and raw sugar have similar amounts of calories. As we know that 1 teaspoon of sugar in the raw has about 16 calories which is the same as this amount of white sugar. So, raw sugar might be more tasty but it does not mean that you can get a caloric advantage by using this sugar.
Processed vs. Natural: Although raw sugar is minimally processed but it is important to keep in mind that both types of sugar are processed to some extent. Refined white sugars need to be more processed to get rid of impurities but raw sugar contains some molasses. But the basic sugar molecule is still the same. - Impact on Health: Large amount of sugar intake whether raw or processed can cause health issues. So, it is best to avoid taking sugar in excess. Although raw sugar is a bit better as compared to white sugar but still it should be used in small amounts.
How Can You Use It in Cooking and Baking
The unique flavor of raw sugar is the reason why people love it. This sugar gives a caramel like sweetness to the foods. The following are some of the ways to use raw sugar in kitchen:
1. Coffee and Tea: Raw sugar is ideal to use with coffee or tea. Its thick crystals slowly dissolve which gives a flavor that can be used with both hot and iced beverages.
2. Baking: The unique flavor of raw sugar makes it a good contender to be used in baking. It is best to use in cookies, cakes, muffins etc. This is because the added molasses from sugar in the raw can make it even more tasty. Moreover the thicker crystals can make the cookies crunchy when sprinkled on top before baking.
3. Sweetening Sauces and Dressings: Sugar in the raw is packed with rich flavor which makes the dishes even more delicious. People use it to sweeten sauces, salad dressings and coatings for meat.
4. Cereal and Oatmeal: If you add a sprinkle of raw sugar then your morning cereal or oatmeal gives you a natural sweetness and a bit of texture.
5. Sprinkling on Fruit: You can sprinkle sugar in the raw on fresh fruits especially sour fruits like grapefruit or pineapple. The molasses in this sugar reduces the sour taste of the fruit.
Environmental Considerations
It is very important to know the affect of sugar production when considering about raw sugar. The cultivation of sugarcane involves massive resources, water and land. Moreover in many countries it involves cutting of trees and for sugarcane farming.
But raw sugar is usually made in a way that it does not affect the environment. Many sugar companies that produce raw sugar are committed to produce sugarcane that minimized water usage as well as protects the environment. They are committed to protect nature including plants, animals and natural forests.
Conclusion
Sugar in the raw is a more natural and less refined option as compared to the white sugar. This provides a richer flavor and keeping some of the trace minerals. But if you think about its health benefits you must keep in mind that it is still a sugar so you must take it in moderation. It is used in both sweet and salty foods and is special. This is why many people use it in cooking.
COMMENTS