Black Sugar (Kokuto)

Kokuto is the black sugar from Okinawa. It is a type of unrefined sugar with a dark brown color and a rich, caramelized flavor. It is made by slowly cooking freshly pressed sugar cane juice until it turns into a thick, viscous syrup with a malty, caramel-like flavor.

The syrup is then left to set and dry. These dry blocks are then crumbled into smaller pieces or crushed into powder. This sugar can be used to sweeten drinks or desserts. It can be melted and diluted and used as a topping, and it also works well in savory dishes.

The production of this dark sugar on Okinawa started in the 17th century. Because of its unique growing conditions, kokuto has a unique, complex flavor. It is rich in minerals and vitamins, and many locals think of it as a health remedy.  Kokuto translates as black sugar, but it is commonly labeled as dark brown or brown sugar.