Packed with various health benefits, how jaggery is used across the globe

Jaggery or commonly known as Gud/Gur in India is slowly gaining popularity as a healthy alternative to refined sugar.

It is a natural sweetener made from extracting sugarcane juice, aka palm sap which is first filtered and then boiled for concentration. After the juice is cooled, it is then solidified into blocks of jaggery.

But what makes Jaggery better than the sugar crystals?
Simply put, the process of making Jaggery does not involve stripping it of a highly nutritious by-product called Molasses. But when the sugar is refined further, it loses this by-product thereby making it less nutritious.

Jaggery can be commonly found in India and Southeast Asia along with parts of South America.

Let’s know a little more about this amazing sweetener:

1.    Unrefined: Unlike white sugar, which undergoes heavy processing and refining, jaggery is unrefined and retains more of its natural nutrients.

2.    Nutrient-Rich: Jaggery contains various minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins like B complex vitamins. It also contains antioxidants and is considered healthier than refined sugar.

3.    Digestive Aid: It is believed to aid digestion and is often consumed after meals in some cultures.

4.    Versatile: Jaggery is used not only as a sweetener but also as an ingredient in various traditional dishes, sweets, and beverages.

5.    Cultural Significance: Jaggery holds cultural significance in many countries and is often used in religious ceremonies and festivals.

6.    Regional Variations: Different regions produce jaggery with slight variations in taste, color, and texture based on the local methods of production and the type of sugarcane or palm used.

7.    Health Benefits: Due to its nutrient content and lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar, jaggery is believed to provide energy, boost immunity, and improve overall health when consumed in moderation. It is also rich in antioxidants and rich in minerals which also helps in boosting immunity.
Jaggery also holds significant cultural and culinary importance in various cuisines around the world, particularly in regions where it is produced. 

Let’s explore its usage of Jaggery in cuisines around the world:
1. Indian Cuisine: Jaggery can be considered an important part of Indian cuisine along with various usage in Ayurveda medicines. It not only is used as a sweetener in traditional sweets and desserts, but also savoury dishes including chutneys and sometimes used in South Indian famous dish ‘Sambar’. It is used to make “laddoos” with different ingredients like puffed rice with jaggery or sesame seeds with jaggery which are especially made during festivals like Makar Sankranti.

2. African Cuisine: In African cuisine, particularly in regions like East Africa and parts of West Africa, jaggery is known by various names such as "gur" or "panela." It is commonly incorporated into traditional African recipes such as porridges, stews, sauces, and desserts, adding a rich, caramel-like sweetness. Jaggery, overall plays a significant role in enhancing the taste and texture of many African dishes. 

3. Southeast Asian Cuisine: In southeast Asian cuisine, jaggery is commonly known as "gula melaka" or "palm sugar." It is widely used as a sweetener and flavoring agent in both savory and sweet dishes. In countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore, gula melaka is a key ingredient in various traditional recipes such as curries, desserts, sauces, and beverages. Its rich, caramel-like flavor adds depth to dishes, while its natural sweetness enhances the overall taste profile. Gula melaka is often preferred over refined sugar for its distinct taste and perceived health benefits.

4. Middle Eastern Cuisine: In Middle Eastern cuisine, jaggery is not as commonly used as it is in some other regions like South Asia. However, it may still be found in certain traditional recipes and dishes, particularly those influenced by Indian or African culinary traditions. Jaggery may be used as a sweetener or flavoring agent in desserts, beverages, and some savory dishes, adding a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the food. Additionally, jaggery may be incorporated into Middle Eastern pastries and confections to enhance their flavor profile. While not as prevalent as in other cuisines, jaggery can still contribute unique taste and depth to Middle Eastern dishes when used judiciously.

While jaggery may have various health benefits, it is always advised to consume it in moderation. People with diabetes or weak digestion should be more aware of its consumption. It is also advised that people who are on a journey of weight loss or are too conscious about weight gain should avoid regular consumption because of its high calories content.