Put brown sugar and the tablespoonful of water into a frying-pan, and stir steadily over the fire till it becomes a deep dark brown in color. Then add boiling water and salt. Boil a minute longer, bottle, and keep corked. One tablespoonful will color a clear soup, and it can be used for many jellies, gravies, and sauces.
The Easiest Way in Housekeeping and Cooking (1903).