Tanghulu, also known as bing, is a traditional Chinese snack that combines the sweetness of sugar syrup with the delightful crunch of fresh fruits. Typically made from skewered hawthorn berries, tanghulu can also be made with other fruits like strawberries, grapes, or even cherry tomatoes. This delectable treat is popular street food in China, especially during the winter season. In this article, we will explore a simple recipe to make tanghulu at home!
Ingredients:
– 500g hawthorn berries (or your choice of fruit)
– 500g granulated sugar
– 250ml water
– 10-15 wooden skewers
– Oil spray
Instructions:
1. Clean and Prep the Fruit:
If using hawthorn berries, wash them thoroughly and remove the stems. If you prefer other fruits like strawberries or grapes, ensure they are washed and dried.
2. Skewer the Fruits:
Take a wooden skewer and gently pierce through each fruit, ensuring it is securely attached. Leave some space between the fruits to ensure even coating and easy handling later on. Repeat this step until all the fruits are skewered.
3. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow the syrup to come to a boil and continue stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Boil the syrup for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency.
4. Coat the Fruits:
Once the syrup is ready, carefully dip each skewered fruit into the hot syrup, sure it is fully coated. Hold the skewer by its end and rotate it gently to allow any excess syrup to drip off. Repeat this step for each skewer, setting them aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Cool and Harden:
Allow the coated fruits to cool and harden for at least 20-30 minutes. You can speed up the process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
6. Give it the Finishing Touch:
Optionally, you can sprinkle some granulated sugar over the coated fruits to add an extra shimmer and sweetness. This step is completely up to your preference.
7. Ready to Serve:
Once the tanghulu is completely hardened and ready, remove the skewers from the baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with oil to give a glossy appearance and prevent sticking. Your tanghulu is now ready to be served!
This sweet and crunchy delicacy is best enjoyed immediately but can also be stored in an airtight container in a cool place for a day or two. The contrast between the tartness of the fruit and the sweetness of the sugar syrup is what makes tanghulu so addictive.
Experiment with different fruits and flavors to create your own unique variations of tanghulu. You can try using different berries, pineapple chunks, or even marshmallows for a fun twist. Additionally, some people like to add a few drops of food coloring to the sugar syrup for vibrant tanghulu.
In conclusion, making tanghulu at home is a fun and exciting way to bring a taste of traditional Chinese street food into your kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful treat that combines the goodness of fresh fruit with the sweetness of a crunchy sugar coating. So, grab some fruits, make a batch of tanghulu, and enjoy this fantastic Chinese delicacy!