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What Is the Difference Between Whiskey and Brandy? A Complete Guide for Beginners

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Whiskey and brandy are as different as cheese and chalk. The one thing that is similar in both is that they contain alcohol and are popular distilled spirits.

However, their origins, starting ingredients, and flavours are different by a huge margin.

This article will answer a lot of questions, including:

The starting ingredients of whiskey and brandy

The process of distillation and ageing

How different are their flavours

The alcohol concentration and its effects on health

How whiskey and brandy differ from other alcoholic drinks, such as rum, bourbon, scotch, and cognac

This differentiation is important for everyone — a beginner, a casual drinker, or someone wanting to gift it to someone special.

Quick Answer: Whiskey vs. Brandy at a Glance

FeatureWhiskeyBrandy 
Base IngredientFermented grain mash Fermented fruit juice (usually grapes) 
Distilled FromBarley, corn, rye, wheatWine or fruit juice 
Typical ABV 40%–50%35%–45% 
Flavor ProfileSmoky, spicy, earthyFruity, sweet, smooth 
Popular TypesScotch, Bourbon, Irish, RyeCognac, Armagnac, Fruit Brandies 
Aging ProcessOak barrels (often charred)Oak barrels (often wine-seasoned) 
Best ServedNeat, on the rocks, or in cocktailsNeat or in warm cocktails 

What Is Whiskey?

The starting ingredient is fermented grains like barley, rye, wheat, or corn.
Distilled and aged in oak barrels, often charred, which gives it its peaty flavour.
Originated in Scotland and Ireland.

Popular types:

  • Scotch (made in Scotland, often smoky)
  • Bourbon (made in the USA, sweeter and fuller)
  • Rye Whiskey (spicier flavour profile)

Whiskey tends to have a stronger, more vigorous flavour and is often considered a “masculine” spirit.

What Is Brandy?

The starting ingredient is fermented fruit juice — mostly grapes, but apples, pears, or cherries are also used.
Often distilled from wine.
Cognac and Armagnac are quality types made in France.
Typically sweeter and softer than whiskey. It is smoother, has a tinge of fruit flavour, and is often consumed as a digestive after dinner.

What Is the Difference Between Whiskey and Brandy?

Here’s a breakdown based on the top intent-based queries:

Brandy vs. Whiskey
Brandy is a distilled wine, while whiskey is a distilled grain mash.
Brandy is fruitier; whiskey is stronger.

Whiskey, Brandy, and Rum
The starting ingredient of rum is sugarcane/molasses, not fruit or grains.
Rum is sweeter and more of a tropical drink.
Brandy is fruitier.
Whiskey has a stronger flavour and is more grainy.

Whiskey, Brandy, and Bourbon
Bourbon is an American whiskey, and the starting ingredient is 50% corn, hence, it is sweeter as compared to traditional Scotch whiskey.
Brandy is fruit-based and not made from grains.

Brandy, Whiskey, and Scotch
Scotch is a whiskey that originated in Scotland and is characterised by its smoky flavour.
In comparison, brandy has no smoke and is sweeter because the starting ingredient is fruit.
Scotch is drier and stronger in flavour.

Brandy vs. Cognac vs. Whiskey
Cognac can be labelled as the premium brandy from the Cognac region, and there are strict guidelines that are followed during its manufacturing process. Cognac is very smooth and refined.
Whiskey, in comparison, has a wider range of taste and texture.

Cherry Brandy vs. Cherry Whiskey
Cherry Brandy: Fruit liqueur, sweet, often used in desserts or cocktails.
Cherry Whiskey: The traditional whiskey with a dash of added fruit flavour.

Also Read: What’s the Difference between Bourbon and Whiskey?

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice depends upon individual preferences. If you love a fruity or dessert-like flavour, it is brandy for you. Brandy is incredibly soft and smooth, and hence is a perfect after-dinner drink. The experience is also milder because of its lower alcohol content.

Which One Should You Choose? Whiskey or Brandy

On the other hand, if you want something stronger and spicier, whiskey is the perfect drink for you. Whiskey exhibits a complex, layered taste combined with its trademark strong, smoky, or spicy notes.

Neat sips or strong cocktails

Alcohol Strength and Health Considerations

Spirit Avg. ABV (%) Calories (Per 1.5 oz) Digestive Effect 
Whiskey 40–50  ~105Neutral 
Brandy 35–45 ~100 Mildly digestive 

PS- Both have high alcohol content and therefore must be consumed in moderation and responsibly. However, Brandy is considered milder and digestible.

Fun Fact: Country of Origin Comparison

Whiskey: Scotland, Ireland, USA, Japan, India

Brandy: France (Cognac, Armagnac), Spain, Portugal, India

Conclusion

Whiskey and Brandy differ in the base ingredient from which it is made-Whiskey starts ingredient is grains, while brandy starts with fruits.

Whiskey is stronger and earthier

Brandy is smoother and fruitier

Bourbon and Scotch are types of whiskey

Cognac is a type of brandy

Rum’s starting ingredient is sugar, not grains or fruits

FAQs

What is the difference between brandy and whiskey?

Brandy is made from fruit (mostly grapes), while whiskey is made from grains such as wheat, corn, barley, and Rye

Is brandy stronger than whiskey?

No, Brandy has a lower alcohol content than whiskey.

Can I substitute whiskey for brandy in a recipe?

Yes, but the flavour will vary since whiskey is less sweet and more smoky/spicy.

Is bourbon the same as whiskey?

Bourbon is a type of whiskey made from at least 51% corn. All Bourbon are whiskey, but not vice versa.

Is cognac a whiskey or brandy?

Cognac is a type of brandy, not whiskey.

Also Read: What Is a Straight Whiskey? Meaning, Types, and How It’s Different from Other Styles

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Cloud Kitchens in India: How the Dark Kitchen Revolution is Transforming the Professional Cooking Equipment Market

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Cloud Kitchens in India: How the Dark Kitchen Revolution is Transforming the Professional Cooking Equipment Market
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India’s foodservice sector witnesses an unprecedented transformation as cloud kitchens redefine operational models and equipment requirements. The delivery-only kitchen format creates substantial opportunities for manufacturers of compact, high-performance restaurant equipment designed for intensive production cycles.

The Explosion of Cloud Kitchens in India: A Post-Pandemic Phenomenon

The Indian commercial kitchen appliances market reached USD 9.40 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 14.30 billion by 2033, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 4.30%, according to IMARC Group. This expansion directly correlates with the cloud kitchen sector’s remarkable trajectory.

As of July 2024, online services accounted for 12% of the country’s food delivery market, with projections indicating this share will increase to 20% by 2030, reports the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF). The rapid growth in internet and smartphone penetration serves as a major driver, with 759 million active internet users in India in 2025, according to CoherentMI research.

The economic advantages prove compelling. Dark kitchens eliminate infrastructural costs associated with dine-in restaurants, providing savings in rentals, electricity, staffing, and inventory management, CoherentMI notes. The Indian cloud kitchen market stood at Rs. 9,747 crore (USD 1.13 billion) in 2024 and is expected to reach Rs. 24,498 crore (USD 2.84 billion) by 2030 at a CAGR of 16.7% during 2024-30, according to IBEF data.

Independent operators dominate the segment, with independent cloud kitchens holding approximately 60.8% of market share in 2024, IMARC Group analysis reveals. These delivery-centric facilities operate with significantly reduced overhead compared to traditional restaurants.

Space Constraints Redefining Equipment Needs

Delivery-focused operations impose unique technical requirements on catering equipment manufacturers. Cloud kitchens typically operate in compact spaces ranging from 200 to 800 square feet, demanding multi-functional units that maximize production capacity within minimal footprints.

The spatial challenge necessitates equipment that combines multiple cooking functions. Successful operators require grills, fryers, ovens, and holding units that fit seamlessly into confined layouts while maintaining output volumes sufficient for 1,500 to 3,000 daily meals. Equipment density becomes paramount.

Cloud kitchen operators are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, sustainable packaging solutions, and locally sourced ingredients to reduce carbon footprints, according to GlobeNewswire market research. This sustainability focus extends to equipment selection, with operators prioritizing energy-efficient appliances that lower operational costs.

The market responds to these spatial constraints with specialized solutions. Compact combination ovens, high-efficiency induction systems, and stackable refrigeration units enable operators to configure production lines that optimize workflow in restricted spaces while maintaining food safety standards.

Roller Grill’s Compact and Intensive Expertise Meets Dark Kitchen Constraints

The company Roller Grill illustrates this market evolution with its recognized expertise in compact, intensive-use equipment. With over 350 references manufactured in France, the firm offers solutions including planchas, gyros grills, and ovens specifically designed for spatial optimization needs.

These high-performance systems address cloud kitchen requirements for equipment that delivers consistent output in confined spaces. Roller Grill’s compact units support the production volumes demanded by delivery-centric operations while occupying minimal floor space—a critical consideration for operators maximizing profitability through efficient space utilization.

The French manufacturer’s extensive product range enables cloud kitchen operators to configure complete cooking lines tailored to specific menu requirements. From rotisseries to toasters, the equipment portfolio addresses diverse culinary needs within the spatial constraints characteristic of ghost kitchen facilities.

Automation and Energy Efficiency: New Requirements

The growing demand for energy-efficient equipment due to increasing operational costs and environmental concerns creates a positive market outlook, IMARC Group reports. Government initiatives such as Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) star ratings further encourage businesses to adopt sustainable appliances, the research notes.

Smart technology integration transforms operational efficiency. Smart appliances such as IoT-enabled ovens, automated fryers, and programmable dishwashers are gaining traction in commercial kitchens, according to IMARC analysis. These connected devices enable remote monitoring, precision cooking, and reduced manual intervention—capabilities particularly valuable for multi-brand cloud kitchen operations.

Automation extends beyond individual appliances to comprehensive kitchen management systems. Real-time order tracking, inventory monitoring, and predictive maintenance capabilities allow operators to optimize workflows and minimize downtime. Energy consumption monitoring features enable operators to identify efficiency improvements and reduce utility costs.

The convergence of automation and sustainability requirements drives equipment innovation. Manufacturers develop solutions that combine operational efficiency with environmental responsibility, meeting regulatory standards while delivering the performance characteristics cloud kitchen operators demand.

Outlook and Challenges for 2025-2030

While major metropolitan areas initially drove cloud kitchen market growth in India, a notable trend toward expanding operations into tier 2 and tier 3 cities now emerges, GlobeNewswire research indicates. These secondary urban centers offer untapped potential characterized by rising disposable incomes and growing online food delivery adoption.

Many states like Meghalaya offer subsidies and incentives to restaurants adopting dark kitchens, focused on enabling digital growth of the food services sector, CoherentMI reports. Government support through favorable policies and infrastructure development accelerates market expansion beyond primary metropolitan areas.

The geographic expansion creates opportunities for catering equipment suppliers serving emerging markets. Tier 2 and tier 3 cities present lower entry barriers with reduced real estate costs, enabling cloud kitchen operators to establish facilities with minimal capital investment. This expansion drives demand for reliable, efficient cooking equipment suitable for high-volume production in diverse operational environments.

Market consolidation and technology advancement characterize the outlook period. Operators invest in automation, sustainable practices, and equipment that supports multi-brand operations from single locations. The company Roller Grill, with its comprehensive range of French-manufactured professional cooking equipment, positions itself to serve this evolving market through solutions that address the specific technical requirements of cloud kitchen operations.

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From Breakfast to Dinner – 7 Ways to Include Ragi in Your Meal 

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From Breakfast to Dinner - 7 Ways to Include Ragi in Your Meal 
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Add more fiber to your diet. You have probably heard this statement a gazillion times. But why is it so important to include fiber in your diet? 

Dietary fiber is found in fruits, grains, legumes, and millets and offers a range of health benefits. It maintains cholesterol levels, reduces glucose spikes, and prevents heart disease. 

In India, the majority of our meals include 60% of carbohydrates. This also means that the intake of fiber and protein is comparatively less than how it should be. 

But thanks to internet culture, people are becoming aware and consciously choosing healthier alternatives like Ragi, also known as finger millet. It has zero cholesterol, high dietary fiber, iron, calcium and power packed with other nutrients. If you have been planning to make healthy recipes using ragi but don’t know where to start, we have your back. 

From breakfast to dinner, here are 7 ways you can add Ragi to your diet. 

Tasty Breakfast Ideas 

Ragi Smoothies 

Ragi’s cooling nature makes it a great addition to your summer breakfast. Blending overnight-soaked Ragi with your favorite seasonal fruits will keep you refreshed and full throughout the day. Along with fruits, you can add any type of milk and top it off with nuts and seeds. Ragi smoothies will keep you energized and curb cravings. 

Ragi Pancakes 

Another wholesome alternative to your breakfast is Ragi pancakes. These fluffy pancakes will keep you satiated and nourished. Depending upon your taste palette, you can opt for savory or sweet pancakes. 

Beat an egg, add healthy flours like Ragi and oats, a pinch of baking powder, and sugar, whisk all together, and make pancakes. For a delicious breakfast, drizzle maple syrup or honey and add yogurt, chopped fresh fruits, and nut butter. 

Ragi Added Lunch Ideas 

Sprouted Ragi Salad 

Sprouted Ragi is enriched with calcium and vitamins, which are essential for overall bone health. It’s crunchy and soft and delivers a natural sweetness to the flavor buds. Soak Ragi for 24 hours, drain the excess water and tie it up in a wet muslin cloth in a warm place. After two days, it will sprout. Now toss in some of your favorite vegetables, grilled paneer or tofu. Drizzle your favorite dressing on top of it and gently mix everything for an even coating. 

Ragi Dosa

Ragi dosa is a staple across South India. The recipe involves preparing the batter using healthy, organic ragi flour, urad dal, and rice. Top it off with your favorite vegetables and serve it with coconut chutney and sambar—it’s a great way to include Ragi in your lunch. 

Nutrient Rich Ragi Snack Ideas 

Ragi Biscuits 

Ragi biscuits are perfect to go with that evening cup of tea. The savory Ragi biscuits are punched with all spices and herbs. Whereas the sweet Ragi biscuits are flavored with vanilla, cardamom, or anything that gives a delectable, sweet flavor. You can also add in some chopped nuts for that extra crunch. 

Ragi Ladoo 

Curbing your sweet cravings will do no good to your diet. It creates brain fog and stirs anxiety. Therefore, indulging in a guilt-free sweet is the way to satisfy those cravings. Ragi ladoo is a tempting treat that is made by roasting Ragi flour, ghee and mixing jaggery or any organic sweetener. You can modify the recipe on your own and even make a chocolate Ragi ladoo coated in grated coconut and nuts. It’s a ten times healthier option than indulging in a sugar loaded sweet. 

Tasty & Satisfying Dinner Ideas 

Ragi Pizza 

After a hectic day, a giant slice of pizza is the ultimate comfort food. Those who are on a diet will avoid pizza like a plague.  Good news is that you can still have pizza made from ragi flour that tastes exactly like the one from takeaway. Instead of using the all purpose flour, simply replace it with Ragi flour and add all your favorite vegetables, cheese and savor every bite. 

Ragi Paratha 

Another quick dinner idea is to make Ragi parathas. You can mix a range of healthy flours like Jowar, quinoa, and oats together with Ragi and knead a dough. There are multiple variations you can make for paratha. You can make a filling of potatoes, mixed vegetables, cottage cheese by adding fresh herbs and spices into the dough. Cook until golden brown, top it with butter and serve with green mint chutney or curd. 

Ending the Day on a Sweet Note 

For desert enthusiasts, it becomes incredibly difficult to resist sweets after dinner. But here’s a delicious and nutty flavored Ragi cake for a delightful treat. For the cake you can opt for different flavors like chocolate, banana, fruit and nut and so much more. Use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or jaggery. Incorporate all the ingredients and bake the cake. It’s a perfect desert and your taste buds will thank you for that. 

Following a diet does not have to be bland or boring. It can be healthy and delicious without having a pang of guilt. In the above-mentioned blog, we have shared 8 ways of including Ragi into your diet from breakfast to dinner. Give these recipes a try, and you will certainly notice a difference in your overall well-being. 

Anamika Singh, is a content strategist at Rotimatic. A dedicated mother of two, she is known for her insightful and engaging content on parenting, cooking, home appliances, and home maintenance. She brings a wealth of personal experience to her work. When she’s not crafting content or taking care of her family, Anamika enjoys whipping up delicious dishes in the kitchen and escaping into the world of books. Her practical advice and actionable tips make her a valuable resource for her readers.

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Are Jet-Puffed Marshmallows Gluten Free? The Official Answer

Yes, Jet-Puffed Marshmallows are gluten-free by ingredients, confirmed by Kraft Heinz. They contain no wheat, barley, or rye, using only corn-based starch. However, they are not third-party certified gluten-free.

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Jet-Puffed Marshmallows needs no introduction since most Americans must have grown up savoring the soft, fluffy delicacy often an essential component of any outings. It is best enjoyed when it is roasted over campfires or melted into s’mores, or whipped into holiday treats.

However today we are going to answer a different question- can it be enjoyed by persons who are on a gluten free diet due to extreme gluten intolerance or are suffering from celiac ailments? Is Jet-Puffed Marshmallows gluten free?

The pleasant news is yes indeed Jet-Puffed Marshmallows are gluten free by ingredients and widely considered safe for gluten-free diets.

Quick Answer

According to Kraft Heinz, the maker of Jet-Puffed Marshmallows:

“Jet-Puffed Marshmallows do not contain gluten ingredients.”

 — Kraft Heinz Consumer Care Statement; verified on the Jet-Puffed brand page

However it must be noted that Jet-Puffed products are not certified gluten free, but the ingredient list clearly states that it does not contain wheat, barley, rye, or oat derivatives which contain gluten.

Additionally Kraft Heinz follows strict allergen labeling per U.S. FDA rules.

Also Read:

Ingredients in Jet-Puffed Marshmallows

The classic Jet-Puffed recipe includes:

Corn syrup

Sugar

Dextrose

Modified food starch (corn)

Water

Gelatin

Tetrasodium pyrophosphate (whipping aid)

Natural & artificial flavors

There are no mention of any gluten-containing grains appear anywhere in the formulation.

All starches used are corn-based, not wheat-based.

Also Read: Are Clif Bars Gluten-Free?

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Every major Jet-Puffed product listed on Kraft Heinz’s official site including Regular Marshmallows, Mini Marshmallows, Jumbo Marshmallows, and Seasonal Shapes uses the same starting ingredient,corn-based formula and omits gluten ingredients.

Chances of Cross-Contamination

Kraft Heinz does not include any wheat-containing ingredients on Jet-Puffed production lines.

The company’s labeling policy guarantees any potential allergens are declared.

Since the brand does not pursue third-party gluten-free certification, extremely sensitive consumers should still rely on personal tolerance.

In a nutshell cross-contact risk is minimal, but the product is not certified gluten free.

Jet-Puffed Varieties and Their Gluten Status

Product  Gluten-Free Status  Source  
Jet-Puffed Original Marshmallows  Gluten-free by ingredientsKraft Heinz  
Jet-Puffed Mini Marshmallows  Gluten-free by ingredientsKraft Heinz  
Jet-Puffed Jumbo Marshmallows  Gluten-free by ingredientsKraft Heinz  
Jet-Puffed Seasonal Shapes (Pumpkin, Snowman, etc.)  Gluten-free by ingredientsKraft Heinz  
Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Crème  Gluten-free by ingredientsKraft Heinz  

Also Read: Are Gushers Gluten-Free?

Gluten-Free Alternatives (Certified Brands)

If you prefer certified gluten-free marshmallows:

Dandies Vegan Marshmallows – Certified GF & Vegan

Campfire Marshmallows – Labeled Gluten Free, top-8 allergen free

Trader Joe’s Marshmallows – Gluten Free & Vegan

FAQs

Is Jet-Puffed Marshmallows gluten free?

Yes, they’re gluten free by ingredients, per Kraft Heinz.

Is Jet-Puffed Mini Marshmallows gluten free?

Yes, Same corn-based recipe, no gluten ingredients.

Is Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Crème gluten free?

Yes, it uses the same gluten-free formulation.

Are Jet-Puffed Marshmallows certified gluten free?

No, They are not third-party certified but meet FDA’s “gluten-free by formulation” standard.

Are Jet-Puffed safe for celiacs?

Generally yes, nevertheless exceedingly sensitive individuals should confirm based on tolerance.

Final Thoughts

So, is Jet-Puffed Marshmallows gluten free?

Affirmative, Jet-Puffed Marshmallows starting ingredients are made without gluten and are considered safe for gluten-free diets.

They’re manufactured by Kraft Heinz using corn-based ingredients, with no wheat, barley, or rye anywhere in the recipe. While not certified gluten free, they meet FDA’s definition and are trusted by the gluten-free community.

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