Are you ready to indulge in a unique and delicious treat? Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese snack consisting of fresh fruits coated in a crisp, sugary shell. This delightful dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. Perfect for parties or as a fun dessert, tanghulu is sure to impress your friends and family. Follow along as we explore this simple yet captivating recipe that brings a taste of Asian street food right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh strawberries
- 12 grapes (green or red)
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Wooden skewers
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1 piece of tanghulu), the nutritional value is approximately:
- Calories: 80
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sugar: 16g
This information is based on a single piece of tanghulu.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Wash and dry the fruits thoroughly.
- Thread one piece of each fruit onto a wooden skewer.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- Cook until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Dip each skewer of fruit into the syrup, coating evenly.
- Place the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Allow the tanghulu to cool and harden for about 10 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fruits based on your preference. Apples, oranges, or even marshmallows can work well. Just ensure the fruit is firm enough to hold the coating.
Serving and Pairings
Tanghulu can be served as a standalone snack or paired with a light tea. It also makes a great addition to dessert tables and can be enjoyed 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 refrigeration as it can cause the sugar coating to become sticky.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not drying the fruits properly, which can cause the sugar to slide off.
- Cooking the syrup too long, resulting in burnt sugar.
- Not using a candy thermometer for accurate results.
- Skipping the lemon juice, which can affect flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, making it hard to cool.
Helpful Tips
- Use a variety of fruits for visual appeal.
- Work quickly when dipping the fruit in the syrup.
- Make sure your skewers are sturdy to support the fruit.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding extracts to the syrup.
FAQs
What fruits work best for tanghulu?
Fruits like strawberries, grapes, and cherry tomatoes are ideal for tanghulu due to their firmness and sweetness. You can also experiment with other fruits that have a similar texture.
Can I make tanghulu in advance?
It’s best to make tanghulu fresh, as the sugar coating can lose its crispiness over time. However, you can prepare the fruit and syrup ahead of time, then assemble when ready to serve.
What is the best temperature for the syrup?
The syrup should reach a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) for the best results. This ensures the coating is crispy and stays intact once it cools.
Can I use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar?
While you can experiment with artificial sweeteners, they may not create the same hard candy texture as granulated sugar. Traditional sugar is recommended for best results.
How do I prevent the sugar from sticking together?
Allow the tanghulu to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their crispiness and prevent clumping.
Conclusion
Tanghulu is a delightful and visually stunning treat that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its sweet, crunchy exterior and fresh fruit interior, it’s a perfect snack for any occasion. Follow this recipe to bring a taste of Chinese street food into your home, and enjoy the fun of making and sharing this unique dessert!
Tanghulu
Ingredients
- 12 fresh strawberries
- 12 grapes green or red
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
- Wash and dry the fruits thoroughly.
- Thread one piece of each fruit onto a wooden skewer.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- Cook until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Dip each skewer of fruit into the syrup, coating evenly.
- Place the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Allow the tanghulu to cool and harden for about 10 minutes.
