What Is Panela? Discover Latin America’s Natural Sweetener – Now in Estonia

If you’ve never heard of panela, get ready to meet one of Latin America’s most beloved pantry staples. Known for its rich, caramel-like flavor and nutritional value, panela is a traditional unrefined cane sugar used in countless Latin American recipes and drinks. And now, you can find authentic Panela Coexito right here in Estonia at LaTienda.ee!

Sugar Cane (Panela)

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🟤 What Is Panela?

Panela is a natural sweetener made by boiling and evaporating sugarcane juice until it solidifies into a golden-brown block. Unlike refined white sugar, it retains its molasses content and essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.

It has a deep, earthy flavor with notes of caramel and toffee, making it perfect for sweetening drinks or adding complexity to both sweet and savory recipes.

Different Names of Panela Across Latin America

Panela goes by many names depending on the country:

• Colombia: Panela

• Mexico: Piloncillo

• Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador: Chancaca

• Costa Rica, Nicaragua: Tapa de dulce

• Venezuela: Papelón

• Brazil: Rapadura

• Guatemala/El Salvador: Dulce de panela

Despite the different names, the product is essentially the same – a block or cone of unrefined sugarcane with intense flavor and cultural significance.

🍹 Traditional Uses in Latin America

Panela is used in a wide variety of ways:

• Hot or cold drinks: In Colombia, it’s the star ingredient of aguapanela – a comforting and energizing drink that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

• Baking and desserts: It adds complexity to cookies, cakes, flans, and traditional sweets like cocadas or buñuelos.

• Savory dishes: Used to glaze meats, enhance sauces, or add balance to spicy foods.

• Natural remedy: Often consumed to soothe sore throats or replenish energy after physical work or illness.

How to Make Aguapanela – Colombia’s Favorite Drink

One of the most iconic ways to enjoy panela is in the form of aguapanela, a drink that’s as versatile as it is nostalgic.

☕ Hot Aguapanela (Perfect for chilly mornings or cozy evenings):

1. Break off a small piece (about 30–40g) of Panela Coexito.

2. Add it to 1 cup (250 ml) of hot water.

3. Stir until fully dissolved.

4. Optional: Add a splash of milk for a creamier version, or even drop in a small piece of cheese (queso campesino) — yes, in some parts of Colombia, it’s traditional to add cheese inside the mug and enjoy it melted and stretchy at the bottom!

   

🍋 Cold Aguapanela with Lemon (Refreshing for summer or after workouts):

1. Dissolve panela in a small amount of hot water as above.

2. Let it cool, then add plenty of cold water and ice.

3. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon or lime.

4. Stir well and enjoy a naturally sweet, citrusy drink full of electrolytes.

This drink is perfect for staying hydrated naturally and is often used in rural areas as a replacement for commercial energy drinks.

Is Panela Used in Estonia?

While panela is still relatively unknown in Estonia, its benefits and versatility make it a great fit for the local market. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly looking for alternatives to refined sugar, and panela offers:

• A minimally processed, all-natural sweetener

• A source of minerals like iron and potassium

• A rich, complex flavor that enhances drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes

It’s ideal for sweetening tea, herbal infusions, and coffee. Try replacing brown sugar in your favorite Estonian pastries, or use it to create syrups and glazes for meat, fruit, or pancakes. It also pairs beautifully with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus for homemade winter beverages.

🛒 Where to Buy Authentic Panela in Estonia

You can now find Panela Coexito (454 g) at LaTienda.ee, Estonia’s go-to shop for authentic Latin American products. Whether you're craving a warm aguapanela on a snowy day or a refreshing lemonade-style drink in summer, panela is your natural companion. Bring a taste of Latin America to your kitchen — whether you call it panela, piloncillo, or chancaca, this golden block of sweetness belongs in every pantry.

Thanks for reading! Want to explore more Latin ingredients? Browse our full collection of authentic flavours from Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and beyond.