Learn how to make brown sugar syrup (arnibal) with a simple, step-by-step guide. This versatile syrup brings a rich, caramel-like sweetness to Filipino desserts and beverages, which you can effortlessly make in your own kitchen.
Brown sugar syrup, or arnibal in Filipino, has a deep and complex flavor profile. Infuse it with pandan leaves or vanilla extract for an extra aromatic touch. It's the ideal sweetener for Filipino treats like Taho (Silken Tofu with Sago and Syrup) and Sago at Gulaman.
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Ingredients You'll Need
- Dark brown sugar: Because of its higher molasses content, it has a rich, caramel-like flavor. Light brown sugar can be a suitable alternative.
- Pandan leaves: Also called screwpine leaves, these fragrant leaves impart a subtle, grassy aroma with a hint of nuttiness. While they don't contribute a discernible taste, their aroma can significantly enhance the flavor experience. Consider pairing them with vanilla or banana extract for a richer aromatic profile.
Tools You'll Need
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer (optional, if using pandan leaves)
- Heat-resistant container
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 (Combine Ingredients): In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1½ cups of dark brown sugar, 1½ cups of water, and 2 pandan leaves. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until well combined.
Feel free to reduce the amount of water for treats like Taho for a thicker, more caramelized consistency.
Step 2 (Boil and Reduce): Set the saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to boil for approximately 15 minutes while stirring intermittently. The syrup should reduce slightly in volume.
Step 3 (Remove Pandan Leaves): Pick out the pandan leaves from the mixture.
Step 4 (Add Vanilla Extract): Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Turn off the heat and let the syrup slightly cool.
Step 5 (Use or Store): You can use the syrup once it cools down or transfer it into a heat-resistant container. If necessary, strain the syrup through a strainer to remove any leaf fragments. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
FAQs
You don't have to refrigerate brown sugar syrup, but keeping it in the fridge will make it last longer. If you choose to store it at room temperature, use an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place for optimal quality. Always use a clean spoon for serving to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.
Arnibal traditionally relies on brown sugar for its distinctive color and rich, molasses-like flavor. While you can use white sugar, you'll miss out on the depth of flavor and color that brown sugar provides. To mimic traditional arnibal, first caramelize the white sugar before adding water to achieve a darker, richer flavor.
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📖 Recipe
How to Make Brown Sugar Syrup (Arnibal)
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer (optional)
- Heat-proof container
Ingredients
- 1½ cups dark brown sugar (see note)
- 1½ cups water
- 2 pandan leaves rinsed & knotted (see note)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (see note)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, water, and pandan leaves. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until well combined.Feel free to reduce the amount of water for treats like Taho for a thicker, more caramelized consistency.
- Boil and Reduce: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to boil for approximately 15 minutes while stirring intermittently. The syrup should reduce slightly in volume.
- Remove Pandan Leaves: Pick out the pandan leaves from the mixture.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract. Turn off the heat and let the syrup slightly cool.
- Use or Store: You can use the syrup once it cools down or transfer it into a heat-resistant container. If necessary, strain the syrup through a strainer to remove any leaf fragments. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Jan
Do you have to thicken the syrup like in your taho recipe?
Nora Rey
Hello Jan, For beverages like sago at gulaman, there's no need to thicken the syrup as much because it will be diluted with water. However, for treats like taho, it's important to have thick and well-caramelized arnibal to add depth of flavor and prevent it from becoming watery.