This article provides an overview of sugar, what it tastes like, its availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make sugar substitutes.
What is Sugar?
Sugar is a universal and generic name for sweet-tasting and soluble carbohydrates, that are commonly added to food and drinks. The two main types of sugars are simple, (fructose and glucose) and compound (sucrose and lactose). White sugar is what you usually think of when sugar comes to mind and this is a refined form of sucrose.
What does Sugar taste like?
Sugar’s main attribute is its sweetness, each type of sugar will taste slightly different depending on how refined it is. Sugar transforms foods and drinks into intense and complex flavors, whereas before they may have been bland and dull.
Is Sugar readily available in Supermarkets?
Sugar will be available in many different forms in supermarkets and local convenience stores. It will usually be found in the baked goods section or may even have its own aisle.
What are some alternative names for Sugar?
Sugar can be referred to in many different ways, as there are different types, such as brown sugar, white sugar, icing sugar, and caster sugar. Sugar may also be referred to as its chemical form, sucrose however this is rare in recipes.
What is a good substitute for Sugar in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for sugar, these include:
- Sugar-free substitutes which are generally referred to as sweeteners are becoming increasingly popular as people are more nutritionally conscious
- Stevia
- Splenda (Sucralose)
- Equal (Aspartame)
- Sweet’N Low (Saccharin)
- Natural sugar substitutes include:
- Honey
- Maple Syrup
- Molasses
- Condensed Milk