Whenever we talk about sugar, most people think of white granulated sugar. But did you know that brown sugar is just as popular and in many cases, even more special? Brown sugar is actually a natural sweetener made from sugar cane or sugar beet.
Most commercial brown sugar sold in the market is actually made by mixing molasses syrup (Molasses) with white sugar. This is the reason why it is brown in color and its taste is also a little dark and unique.
White Sugar vs Brown Sugar
The source of both brown and white sugar is the same – sugarcane or sugar beet.
- Sugarcane is cut and juice is extracted from it.
- That juice is passed through several processes to separate sugar crystals and molasses.
When the molasses is completely separated, we get white sugar. But when a little jaggery syrup is added back to the same white sugar, brown sugar is formed.
That is, the only difference between white and brown sugar is that jaggery is present in brown sugar. Due to this:
- Brown sugar is a little moist.
- It forms clumps quickly.
- White sugar remains granular and dry.
Difference in Terms of Nutrition
Many people believe that brown sugar is healthier, but the reality is that both are almost the same at the nutritional level.
Yes, due to the presence of jaggery in brown sugar, a small amount of minerals like sodium, calcium, and potassium is found. But the amount is so little that it does not provide much benefit.
Dark Brown Sugar vs Light Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is also of two types:
- Light brown sugar – Contains less amount of jaggery. The taste is mildly sweet and the color is light brown.
- Dark brown sugar – Contains more amount of jaggery. Its color is dark brown and the taste is also stronger.
You can use both of them according to your preference and taste.
Examples:
- In baking, light brown sugar gives a light taste to cakes.
- Dark brown sugar gives a deeper taste to flavors such as chocolate, caramel, or spiced cookies.
Different Types of Brown Sugar
Not only light and dark, but many other varieties of brown sugar are also available around the world.
1. Raw Sugar
- Cane sugar that is not completely processed.
- Naturally some molasses remains in it.
- Golden color with large crystals.
- Difficult to melt.
- Examples: Demerara and Turbinado.
2. Unrefined Sugar
- Molasses is not removed at all.
- Dark brown color with strong flavor and sticky texture.
- Known by different names in different countries such as:
- Muscovado
- Barbados sugar
- Rapadura
- Panela
- Piloncillo
- Jaggery / Gur
- Kokuto sugar (Japan)
3. Free-Flowing or Granulated Brown Sugar
- Processed to remove moisture.
- Does not form lumps.
- Easy to store.
Nutrition and Calories in Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is basically a source of carbohydrates, which the body uses as energy.
One teaspoon (1 tsp) of brown sugar contains approximately:
- 17.5 calories
- 0 grams of fat, cholesterol, and protein
- 4.5 grams of carbohydrates
- Small amounts of sodium, calcium, and potassium
Benefits of Brown Sugar
1. Instant Source of Energy
Brown sugar breaks down into glucose very quickly and gives instant energy to the body. This is why it is considered effective in removing fatigue or increasing energy.
2. Helps Children in Having a Nutritious Diet
Sometimes children are very fussy eaters. Some do not like the taste of vegetables, while others do not like porridge or oats. In such cases, brown sugar works as a bridge food.
Example:
If children do not eat oats, add some brown sugar to it. The taste becomes sweet and children eat it easily.
This way:
- Parents are satisfied.
- Children also get the necessary nutrition.
3. Prevention of Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a condition in which the sugar level in the body decreases. It is often seen in diabetic patients.
Symptoms: dizziness, weakness, sweating, irritability, sleepiness, and in severe cases, seizures.
Treatment: It is necessary to give glucose immediately. Drinking a spoonful of brown sugar dissolved in water can provide immediate relief.
Disadvantages of Brown Sugar
It is wrong to eat brown sugar in large quantities thinking it to be healthy.
Excessive consumption of sugar can lead to:
- Heart diseases
- Obesity
- Diabetes
Therefore, it should always be eaten in limited quantities.
Substitutes of Brown Sugar
If you do not have brown sugar, do not worry. There are many alternatives to it.
1. Make it at Home
Mix one spoonful of jaggery syrup (Molasses) in one cup of white sugar to prepare brown sugar.
2. Maple Syrup
- Natural and tasty.
- Being liquid, you must adjust other wet ingredients while baking.
3. Fruits
Bananas, berries, raisins, and other fruits can be used for natural sweetness.
4. Honey
- Natural and preservative-free.
- Sweeter than sugar, so use in small amounts.
5. Date Sugar
- Made by drying and grinding dates.
- Contains fiber and minerals.
- Good alternative for baking as it retains moisture.
Using Brown Sugar: What is the Difference?
When you use any other substitute in place of brown sugar, some changes occur in the recipe.
- Brown sugar darkens in color during baking, substitutes may be lighter.
- Brown sugar provides secondary flavor and moisture, substitutes may lack this.
- Some substitutes have a different aftertaste.
- Baking time may need adjustments.
Can Brown Sugar Be Used as a Substitute for White Sugar?
Yes, brown sugar can replace white sugar in a 1:1 ratio.
However:
- It has more moisture, so you may need to reduce other liquid ingredients.
- The taste may be darker and caramel-like.
Takeaways
- Brown and white sugar are almost the same in terms of nutrition.
- Brown sugar provides quick energy and makes food taste better.
- It can be a good way to feed nutritious food to picky eaters.
- But, like all sugars, it should be used in moderation as excess consumption can cause health problems.
