Palm Sugar

Derived from any variety of palm trees, palm sugar is a sweetener that is made from the sap present in the flower buds of the coconut palm tree. This sugar has been used in the preparation of traditional dishes in south and south-east Asian cuisines. Besides, it has a mild caramel flavor, and in its liquid form resembles honey whereas in the granular state, it is not much different in taste as compared to white sugar. It is worth noting that research studies have found that palm sugar contains minerals like potassium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, manganese and copper. It is also rich in B vitamins, especially inositol which is needed for the formation of healthy cells, as well as thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid and choline. In addition, palm sugar contains the same 16 amino acids as present in the sap from which it is derived, and these amino acids are needed for cell growth and repair.