What is panella?

Panella (also known as Panela or Piloncillo) is a type of unrefined sugar that is popular in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. It is made by boiling and evaporating sugarcane juice until the water content has reduced and the sugar has crystallized. Unlike refined sugar, panella retains its natural brown color and contains small amounts of molasses, giving it a unique flavor profile. It is often used in desserts, beverages (such as hot chocolate and coffee), and as a sweetener in cooking. Panella is considered to be a healthier alternative to white sugar since it is less processed and contains more essential minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.