Molasses

Molasses is a thick, syrupy sweetener that is a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It is made from the juice of sugar cane or sugar beets that has been boiled and clarified. There are several types of molasses, including light, dark, and blackstrap, which vary in color, flavor, and sugar content. Light molasses is the sweetest and mildest in flavor, while dark molasses is slightly less sweet and has a stronger flavor. Blackstrap molasses is the darkest and least sweet of the three, and it has a strong, slightly bitter flavor. Molasses is commonly used in baking and cooking to add flavor and sweetness to dishes such as gingerbread, baked beans, and barbecue sauces. It is also a popular ingredient in traditional folk remedies and is thought to have various health benefits.