Using dark rum instead of white rum

Question

If my recipe calls for white rum and I only have Jamaican rum can I still use the same measurements?

score 3 · Answer 1 · answered Dec 11 '13 at 02:09

3

Yes, but you may get a slightly different flavor, and certainly a different color in the final dish.

Many times, white rum is specified so as not to change the color, so you have to decide if this is an acceptable change for whatever you are making.

answered Dec 11 '13 at 02:09

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score 3 · Answer 2 · answered Dec 12 '13 at 14:44

It really depends on the recipe. Dark rum tends to have a more complex flavor, heavy on molasses. As long as you like that and feel it will go well with the rest of the recipe, it is fine. It isn't going to make any substantial chemical difference in a way that will affect the outcome, so base your decision completely on flavor and color.

score 0 · Answer 3 · answered Dec 12 '13 at 14:55

It is certainly a valid substitution (that is it won't alter the chemistry of your recipe) but it may slightly alter (for better or worse) the flavor of the finished product.

You might also be wary of a the many varieties of "Spiced Rum" that may significantly change the flavor profile of your dish. For instance, in my rum cake I prefer to use Sailor Jerry's Spiced Rum over the recommended white rum.

(your mileage may vary)

Using dark rum instead of white rum

3 Answers3