What Is Turbinado Sugar?

Cover What Is Turbinado Sugar? (1000x1500)

Turbinado sugar is a type of sugar that is less refined than white sugar but more refined than brown sugar. It is made from sugar cane juice that has been spun in a centrifuge to remove most of the molasses. This process leaves behind large, coarse crystals that are light brown in color and have a subtle molasses flavor.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Turbinado Sugar?
2. What Are the Health Benefits of Turbinado Sugar?
3. What Are Some Uses for Turbinado Sugar?
4. What Are Some Substitutes for Turbinado Sugar?
5. How Should I Store Turbinado Sugar?

What Is Turbinado Sugar?

Turbinado sugar is a type of sugar that is commonly used in baking and cooking. It is less refined than white sugar but more refined than brown sugar. Turbinado sugar is made by spinning sugar cane juice in a centrifuge to remove most of the molasses. This process leaves behind large, coarse crystals that are light brown in color and have a subtle molasses flavor.

Turbinado sugar is sometimes called "raw sugar," but this is a misnomer. While it is less refined than white sugar, it is still refined to some degree. The term "raw sugar" is more accurately used to describe sugar that has not been refined at all.

What Are the Health Benefits of Turbinado Sugar?

Turbinado sugar is often touted as a healthier alternative to white sugar, but it is important to keep in mind that it is still a type of sugar and should be consumed in moderation. That being said, turbinado sugar does have a few health benefits:

1. Contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals

Turbinado sugar is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals, but it does contain small amounts of calcium, potassium, and iron. These minerals are not present in white sugar, which is stripped of all nutrients during the refining process.

2. Has a lower glycemic index than white sugar

The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause blood sugar spikes, which can be problematic for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. Turbinado sugar has a lower glycemic index than white sugar, which means it is less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.

What Are Some Uses for Turbinado Sugar?

Turbinado sugar can be used in any recipe that calls for white or brown sugar. It is particularly well-suited for recipes that call for a subtle molasses flavor. Some popular uses for turbinado sugar include:

1. Baking

Turbinado sugar is a great choice for baking because its large crystals provide a nice crunch and its subtle molasses flavor adds depth to baked goods. Try using it in cookies, cakes, and muffins.

2. Sweetening coffee or tea

Turbinado sugar is a great alternative to white sugar when sweetening coffee or tea. Its subtle molasses flavor pairs well with coffee and tea, and its large crystals provide a nice texture.

What Are Some Substitutes for Turbinado Sugar?

If you don't have turbinado sugar on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use:

1. Brown sugar

Brown sugar is a good substitute for turbinado sugar because it has a similar texture and molasses flavor. Keep in mind that brown sugar is more refined than turbinado sugar, so it may not have the same health benefits.

2. White sugar

If you don't have any other options, you can use white sugar as a substitute for turbinado sugar. Keep in mind that white sugar is more refined and has a different flavor and texture than turbinado sugar.

How Should I Store Turbinado Sugar?

Turbinado sugar should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several months if stored properly.

Conclusion

Turbinado sugar is a type of sugar that is less refined than white sugar but more refined than brown sugar. It is made from sugar cane juice that has been spun in a centrifuge to remove most of the molasses. Turbinado sugar has a subtle molasses flavor and is a great choice for baking and sweetening coffee or tea. While it is often touted as a healthier alternative to white sugar, it is still a type of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.