How to melt sugar evenly?
I tried melting some sugar for a sesame caramel bar, but I could't manage to melt it evenly, and I have no idea why.
What I did was:
I turned the heat on the hot-plate at 2 (out of 4) and put a thick pan on.
I put the sugar in - the layer was about 1/2 to 1cm.
It started melting alright but there was unmelted sugar left on the top, so I tried swirling it (as I've read I should do in that case) but it didn't seem to do anything. I was afraid it might start burning so I tried putting the melted sugar on the top of the unmelted sugar (again according to the instructions) with a spoon, but that didn't work well - it started hardening in lumps.
I managed to melt it somehow and removed it from the heat when it started turning brownish, even though there were still some small lumps left.
The bar I was making turned out quite well despite of this, but I'd still like to know how to melt sugar properly.
Best Answer
Some people/recipe suggest adding a little bit of water at the start to help dissolve the sugar.
Have a lookskie at "wet caramel"
Pictures about "How to melt sugar evenly?"
Do you Stir sugar when melting it?
When granulated sugar is slowly heated, it melts and turns golden brown. This process is known as caramelization. The sugar must be melted in a heavy pan (not iron) over very low heat. Pour it into the pan (Step 1) and stir constantly with a long-handled spoon.How do you melt sugar without getting hard?
Melt in a pot. Turn the burner on to low heat to ensure your sugar won't burn or turn to caramel syrup. Using a wooden spoon, continuously stir the sugar in the pot, breaking up any clumps and making sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan until the sugar melts.Can you just melt sugar?
Sugar melts at about 320 degrees F. and will turn to a clear liquid at that temperature. After sugar dissolves and syrup is simmering, cook for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, without stirring. Hold handle of pan and gently tilt the pan off the heat to distribute color evenly as sugar caramelizes.Can I Melt sugar in the microwave?
In a clear, microwave-safe bowl, combine water and sugar. Stir well under sugar is completely dissolved. Microwave on high for about 6 to 7 minutes or until color changes to honey-gold. Use immediately.How To Melt Sugar | Southern Living
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Karolina Grabowska, Ryutaro Tsukata, Kamaji Ogino, Piotr Arnoldes