Switching to jaggery? Here are some different ways to use it

Blogs12 Dec 2024

Jaggery, or ‘Gur’ as it is called in India, is a natural sweetener which has been a part of our dishes for many generations. It is made from concentrated sugarcane juice or palm sap and has a caramel-like rich flavour. Jaggery is produced in the African and Indian regions and contains more than just sugar, it also has some natural nutrients too. This is why it's another alternative for refined sugar and can be a lovely addition to your regular meals.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of jaggery and how you can use them in your everyday cooking!

Types of Jaggery

1. Palm Jaggery

Made from the sap of palm trees, this type of jaggery has a distinct flavour that is reminiscent of chocolate and pairs well with savoury and sweet dishes alike. It may also contain some vitamins and minerals that can support overall health.

2. Cane Jaggery

Cane jaggery is made using sugarcane juice. It includes processes like boiling, filtering, and churning sugarcane juice to create granular jaggery. It has a delightfully sweet and rich taste which makes it a favourite option in India.

3. Coconut Jaggery

Yes, you read that right. Jaggery is also made from unfermented coconut sap. This sap is drained, heated and crystallised to form a sweetener with a hint of coconut. It pairs well with sweets consumed in South India.

4. Black Jaggery

Black jaggery is a type of cane jaggery that is darker in colour and has a more intense flavour. It is particularly rich in minerals and is used in various traditional remedies.

Different Ways to Use Jaggery

Not just traditional dishes, you can use jaggery in all kinds of meals. Here are a few ideas for you to start using jaggery:

Breakfast

Oatmeal/Porridge with Jaggery and Nuts

If you want to begin your day with a wholesome and filling meal, try making a warm bowl of oats with milk and top it up with some nuts, seeds and jaggery. The combination of nuts and jaggery will add sweetness and crunchiness to your regular oats, making breakfast all the more fun!

Smoothies with Jaggery and Fruits

Smoothies are the perfect drink for filling your stomach with some fruits and vegetables in a quick way. They also make for easy on-the-go breakfast items that provide a host of nutrients and energy. You can add jaggery to smoothies made of bananas, berries, mangoes etc for a touch of added sweetness.

Lunch/Dinner

Indian Lentil Soups (Dal) and Bean Stews

You can add a touch of sweetness to your favourite savoury dishes for a unique taste. Many traditional recipes such as dal and vegetable stews in different states in India such as Gujarat and Kerala use jaggery to reduce the acidity and enhance flavour.

Snacks & Desserts

Energy Balls with Nuts and Seeds

Mix nuts, seeds and jaggery to make tasty energy balls that give you a surge of energy between meals and keep you full. You can combine these ingredients with nut butter and store them in big batches so that you can have a few every day!

Laddoos

When making sweets at home such as Badam ladoo, Til ke ladoo, etc., use jaggery instead of sugar for a natural and sweet taste that also provides some nutrition.

Jaggery-Sweetened Beverages

• Turmeric milk: Whether you have a sore throat or simply need some warmth, nothing feels as soothing on colder days as hot turmeric milk with spices. You can add some jaggery to bring some sweetness to this drink and have it hot for a pleasant experience.
• Hot Chocolate: Sweeten your hot chocolate with jaggery instead of refined sugar for a richer flavour.
• Jaggery Tea: Replace sugar with jaggery in your tea for a more natural sweetness.
• Jaggery Lemonade: Make a refreshing lemonade with jaggery, water, and lemon juice for a twist on a classic drink.

Baking Using Jaggery Instead of Sugar

If you love baking at home and occasionally indulging in a homemade baked treat, you can try baking with jaggery. It can be easily used in all regular baking recipes instead of white sugar or brown sugar and it adds a rich caramel-like flavour to baked goods.

Cookies: Replace refined sugar with jaggery powder in recipes such as Ragi cookies. Jaggery adds a unique flavour and makes your cookies slightly more nutritious. You can also add oats and make Jaggery oats and Ragi cookies.

Cakes: When making healthier recipes like ragi cakes, you can use jaggery instead of refined sugar or brown sugar to maximise on health benefits and sweetness at once!

How To Cook With Jaggery

• Grating or Crushing: Jaggery often comes in solid blocks. Grate or crush it into smaller pieces for easier use.
• Melting: Melt jaggery with a little water to make syrup. This syrup can be used in various recipes as a natural sweetener.
• Balancing Flavours: Use jaggery to balance the flavours in spicy or tangy dishes. It works particularly well in curries and sauces.
• Storage: Store jaggery in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to prevent it from hardening or melting.

Conclusion

Making the switch from refined sugar to jaggery can be a tasty and nutritious choice. You can add it to your regular bowl of oatmeal in the morning, use it to sweeten your smoothies and teas and even cook and bake using this natural sweetener. However, you must practise caution while using jaggery as it is a form of sugar. Having excessive quantities of jaggery may cause harmful effects like weight gain, blood sugar spikes, tooth decay, digestive issues etc. So moderation is key when it comes to using this natural sweetener!

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