The general test for detection of carbohydrates is
Molisch test: It is a general test for the detection of carbohydrates. The strong H2SO4 hydrolyzes carbohydrates (poly and disaccharides) to liberate monosaccharides. The monosaccharides get dehydrated to form furfural (from pentoses) or hydroxymethyl furfural (from hexoses) which condense with a-naphthol to form a violet colored complex. Ref: Biochemistry by U. Satyanarayana 3rd edition Pgno : 17
Iodine test
Molisch test
Barfoed test
Osazone test
Metabolism of carbohydrate