sugar

Description

Sugar is a crystalline, white or light brown ingredient with a sweet, pure taste and a pleasant, quickly dissolving texture. It primarily provides easily digestible energy in the form of calories, containing no significant vitamins or minerals; moderate consumption can temporarily improve performance and mood, while excess can lead to weight gain and metabolic issues. In the kitchen, sugar serves as a sweetener, a caramelizing agent, a thickener for jams, a means of balancing acidity, and a supporter of fermentation in baking, fitting well with baked goods, beverages, sauces, and desserts. It should be stored tightly in a dry, cool place, away from moisture and insects; white sugar retains its structure for a long time, while brown sugar should be kept in a container with a small source of moisture (e.g., a piece of bread or special silica) to prevent it from hardening.