Strawberry Tanghulu

Strawberry Tanghulu is a popular Chinese street snack featuring fresh strawberries coated in a crunchy, glossy sugar shell. Originating from northern China, this treat is loved for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors combined with an irresistible crunch. While traditionally made with hawthorn berries, using strawberries offers a juicier, modern twist on this classic candied fruit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Tanghulu recipe is a delightful treat for anyone who loves the combination of crisp, caramelized sugar and juicy fruit. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and requires just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it makes for an impressive dessert or party snack that will wow your guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh strawberries (preferably large and firm)
• Granulated sugar
• Water
• Wooden skewers (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries to ensure the sugar coating sticks properly. Insert each strawberry onto a skewer if desired.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water in a 2:1 ratio (e.g., 2 cups of sugar to 1 cup of water). Heat over medium heat without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), or until it forms a hard crack stage.
3. Dip the Strawberries: Quickly dip each strawberry into the syrup, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off.
4. Cool and Harden: Place the coated strawberries on a parchment-lined tray to cool and harden at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 10-12 strawberry tanghulu skewers, depending on the size of the strawberries. The preparation and cooking time combined is around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Different Fruits: Try using grapes, blueberries, or pineapple chunks for a fun mix.
• Flavored Syrup: Add a drop of vanilla or almond extract to the sugar syrup for a unique twist.
• Colorful Coating: Add natural food coloring to the syrup for a vibrant visual appeal.

Storage/Reheating

Store Strawberry Tanghulu at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigerating, as the sugar coating can become sticky. Reheating is not recommended, as the sugar shell may melt or lose its crisp texture.

FAQs

What is Tanghulu made of?

Tanghulu is made of fruit, usually skewered and coated in a hard candy shell made from sugar syrup.

Why is my tanghulu sticky?

If the sugar coating becomes sticky, it may be due to humidity or incorrect syrup temperature. Make sure the syrup reaches 300°F for a proper hard crack stage.

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?

Yes, grapes, blueberries, and hawthorn berries are popular alternatives.

How do I prevent the sugar from crystallizing?

Avoid stirring the syrup once it starts boiling, and use a clean brush dipped in water to remove sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.

Can I make tanghulu without a thermometer?

Yes, but it’s trickier. You can test the syrup by dropping it into cold water; if it hardens instantly and breaks when bent, it’s ready.

Why is my sugar coating too thick?

If the syrup is too cool when you dip the fruit, it will coat too thickly. Make sure to dip the fruit quickly while the syrup is hot.

Can I refrigerate tanghulu?

Refrigeration is not recommended as it may cause the sugar coating to melt and become sticky.

How long does tanghulu stay crunchy?

Tanghulu stays crunchy for up to 2 days if stored properly at room temperature in a dry environment.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

No, honey won’t harden the same way sugar does for a crunchy shell.

Is tanghulu vegan?

Yes, as long as the sugar used is vegan-friendly (some sugars are processed with bone char).

Conclusion

Strawberry Tanghulu is a simple yet captivating treat that brings a touch of Chinese street food culture into your home. With its glossy, crunchy shell and juicy strawberry core, it’s sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults. Try it once, and you’ll see why this sweet treat has been beloved for centuries.

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