Raw sugar comes from the sugar cane plant.
The sugars commonly referred to as raw sugar are not actually raw sugar, as they have been partially processed. True raw sugar -- sugar with no processing -- is not available for consumers because it contains impurities that make it unsafe. According to the Sugar Association, most sugar comes from sugar cane that is pressed. The resulting juice is evaporated and processed in a centrifuge to separate the crystals, which are then dried into granules. The granules are then refined to remove the molasses from the sugar. The amount of molasses remaining determines the type: White granulated sugar has had all of the molasses removed, while raw sugar has had none removed. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Demerara Sugar
Demerara sugar is light brown with large granules. It is named for the Demerara colony in Guyana, where the sugar originated. It tends to be moist and somewhat sticky, since it still contains molasses. Very popular in England, it is most commonly used in coffee, tea and on top of hot cereal; although, it can be used for baking as well, according to Linda Stradley of What's Cooking America.
Barbados/Muscovado Sugar
Barbados sugar, also known as Muscovado sugar, tends to be very dark brown and have a strong molasses flavor. According to the Canadian Sugar Institute, it is produced early in the sugar refining process, before all of the natural flavors and colors have been removed. Muscovado sugar is not put into a centrifuge, but is instead, dried under low heat. This gives the crystals a more coarse and sticky texture than traditional brown sugar. Its flavor tends to be too strong for coffee or tea, but it is used in some baked goods and is common in sauces and marinades.
Turbinado Sugar
Turbinado sugar is light brown with large granules.
According to the Sugar Association, Turbinado sugar is often labeled raw sugar, but it is not truly raw, as it has been partly processed. The molasses on the surface of the crystals has been rinsed off using a centrifuge and steam; in fact, the name Turbinado references the centrifuges that are used to produce the sugar . The color is very light golden brown with a slight honey flavor, similar to brown sugar. Turbinado sugar is the raw sugar most commonly sold in the US and is generally seen in small packets at restaurants and coffee shops. It is commonly used in coffee and tea and for garnish on baked goods.
Tags: brown with, from sugar, According Sugar, According Sugar Association, baked goods, brown sugar