Tanghulu is a beloved Chinese street food that turns fresh fruits into a delightful candy treat. Coated in a glossy sugar syrup, each bite offers a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness. This recipe is not only simple but also allows you to customize it with your favorite fruits. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
– Fresh strawberries
– Mandarin oranges
– Green grapes
– Water
– Granulated sugar
– Skewers
– Food-grade lollipop sticks (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 10 servings, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of tanghulu (approximately 3 pieces) contains about 150 calories, 0g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Wash the fruits thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel.
2. Insert skewers into each fruit, leaving enough space at the bottom for handling.
3. In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (1 cup each).
4. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
5. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
6. Cook until the syrup reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage).
7. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool briefly.
8. Carefully dip each skewer of fruit into the syrup, coating it evenly.
9. Place the coated fruit on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
10. Allow the tanghulu to set for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute any fruit with your favorites, such as kiwi, pineapple, or apple slices. Just ensure the fruits are firm and not overly juicy, as this can affect the coating.
Serving and Pairings
Tanghulu can be enjoyed on its own or alongside other snacks like popcorn or nuts. It makes for a colorful addition to dessert platters at parties.
Storage and Reheating
Tanghulu is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigerating, as humidity can make the candy sticky.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not drying the fruits properly can lead to syrup not adhering.
- Cooking the syrup too long can result in burnt sugar.
- Stirring the boiling syrup can cause crystallization.
- Not using a candy thermometer can lead to incorrect syrup consistency.
- Forgetting to line the baking sheet may lead to a sticky mess.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of colorful fruits for a visually appealing presentation.
- Make sure the syrup cools slightly before dipping to avoid burns.
- Work quickly when coating to prevent the syrup from hardening.
- Experiment with flavored syrups for a unique twist.
- Keep the skewers short for easier handling.
FAQs
What fruits work best for tanghulu?
Fruits that are firm and not overly juicy, such as strawberries, grapes, and mandarin oranges, work best for tanghulu. They hold their shape well when coated with syrup, ensuring a delightful crunch.
Can I make tanghulu in advance?
While tanghulu is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness.
Is there a vegan version of tanghulu?
Yes, tanghulu is naturally vegan as it primarily consists of fruits and sugar. Just ensure the sugar used is unrefined if you want to maintain a strict vegan diet.
How do I know when the syrup is ready?
The syrup is ready when it reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This ensures a hard, crunchy coating once cooled.
Can I use other sweeteners for the syrup?
You can experiment with other sweeteners like coconut sugar or agave syrup, but the results may vary in texture and flavor. Traditional granulated sugar gives the best results.
Conclusion
Tanghulu is a fun and easy recipe that brings a taste of Chinese street food to your kitchen. With its vibrant colors and delightful crunch, this sweet treat is perfect for gatherings or as a snack. Enjoy experimenting with different fruits and sharing this unique delicacy with friends and family!
Tanghulu
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries
- Mandarin oranges
- Green grapes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- Skewers
Instructions
- Wash the fruits thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel.
- Insert skewers into each fruit, leaving enough space at the bottom for handling.
- In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water (1 cup each).
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- Cook until the syrup reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool briefly.
- Carefully dip each skewer of fruit into the syrup, coating it evenly.
- Place the coated fruit on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
- Allow the tanghulu to set for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
