Gula djawa, which translates into red sugar, is a type of unrefined sugar made from the flower sap of the date palm tree. It is similar to coconut palm sugar but with a deeper sweetness, earthiness, and flavor. It is ubiquitous in Southeast Asian cuisine as an ingredient for flavorful curries, sauces, and stir-fry dishes such as pad thai. Palm sugar is essential in adding complexity, flavor, and sweetness to many desserts, drinks, and foods.