Which vegetable can be used in place of cane sugar to sweeten sauces?

Caramelized onions are an excellent choice for sweetening sauces as they develop a rich, sweet flavor when cooked slowly until browned. This process enhances their natural sugar content and gives them a deep, complex taste that can easily replace the sweetness of cane sugar. The sweetness from caramelized onions is not only effective but also adds depth and umami, making it a preferred method in savory dishes where a delicate balance of flavors is desired.

While roasted peppers, sweet potatoes, and carrots can contribute sweetness in various culinary applications, they do not offer the same concentrated sweetness and savory depth as caramelized onions, especially in the context of sauce-making. Roasted peppers are generally used for their smoky flavor and are not sweet enough alone. Sweet potatoes and carrots can provide sweetness but need preparation, such as roasting or pureeing, to unlock and utilize their natural sugars effectively, which may not achieve the same immediate depth as caramelized onions.