Making caramel sounds easy. The only ingredient you need is sugar, and the cooking process only requires melting that sugar. However, once you try to do it, you realize things are not that simple.
The caramel-making process is actually quite complex and challenging. If you are not careful enough, your entire batch can be ruined in a matter of seconds, and you’ll end up with nothing but clumps of burnt sugar in a saucepan. On the other hand, if you get all the steps right, you will get rewarded with a perfect addition to your cakes, pastries, and all things sweet.
To make sure you experience the latter, check out these simple tips that will help you make the perfect caramel.
Use a Large Pot
Place the pot you intend to use for caramel on the counter. Then put it away and take out a bigger, deeper, and thicker pot. Caramel is very hot and can become unstable, especially if you add water. Having a larger pot will protect you and the kitchen while giving you more maneuvering space.
Don’t Add All the Sugar At Once
Most people just dump all of the sugar at once in the pot. Unfortunately, this immediately makes it harder to make good caramel as the sugar will melt unevenly. The better route is to add half of the sugar, wait for it to melt, and then add the rest.
Stick to the Stove
Caramel requires your full attention, so don’t start any other activity once you start making it. Instead, stick to the stove and focus on the caramel until it’s ready to be taken off.
