Ranipur: Sweet Tales From Sindh

Sugarcane is a cash crop reportedly believed to be discovered in Papua New Guinea or Southeast Asia around 8,000 BCE. The cultivation of sugarcane gradually spread to South Asia and other parts of the world through trade and exploration.

Gur, also known as jaggery, is a traditional form of unrefined sugar that is commonly used as a sweetener in Pakistani dishes. It is generally made by boiling sugarcane juice until it solidifies to form a slab or chunk.

The origin of gur can be traced back thousands of years to ancient civilizations that cultivated sugarcane. The extraction and processing of sugarcane juice to produce gur likely began in the subcontinent, dating back to around 300 BCE.

Gur has a distinctly rich, molasses-like flavour with a sweet aroma similar to caramel. It is said to symbolize the abundance of the harvest season and represents the connection between nature, agriculture, and culinary traditions.

Gur is particularly cherished during the winter months in Pakistan. It's warming and energizing properties make it a popular ingredient in traditional winter delicacies.

The extraction and crystallization of sugar allegedly began in ancient India, eventually spreading to the Middle East and China. In the 18th century, the sugar refining process was revolutionized through industrial advancements that allowed the growth of global sugar trade.

Refined sugar is a major global commodity with a broad market reach, used significantly in processed food and confectionery. On the other hand, gur is produced on a small scale and hence, is usually priced higher since it is primarily only found during the winter months.