What is caramelization and examples?

Caramelization is the process of heating sugar until it melts and turns into a brown, flavorful substance, resulting in a rich, sweet, and slightly nutty taste. This transformation occurs at temperatures of around 320°F (160°C) and involves the breakdown of sugar molecules. Common examples of caramelization include making caramel sauce, toasting sugar on top of crème brûlée, and the browning of onions when sautéed until they become sweet and golden.