Long before tanghulu became a viral sensation on TikTok, it was a beloved snack enjoyed by Chinese royalty. This sweet and tangy treat, consisting of skewered fruit coated in a crispy sugar glaze, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Today, tanghulu is a popular street food in China and Taiwan, loved by people of all ages. And now, with a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can make your own jeweled lollipops at home.
The origins of tanghulu can be traced back to the Song Dynasty in China, which lasted from 960 to 1279 AD. It is said that the snack was created by a palace chef who wanted to impress the emperor with a unique and delicious treat. The chef skewered pieces of fruit, typically hawthorn berries, and coated them in a sugar glaze, creating a beautiful and tasty snack fit for royalty. This snack quickly became a favorite among the imperial court and was often served at banquets and special occasions.
Over time, tanghulu became popular outside of the palace walls and was sold by street vendors in China. It also became a popular snack during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the new year. Today, tanghulu can be found in various forms and flavors, including strawberries, grapes, kiwi, and even cherry tomatoes. It has also gained popularity in Taiwan, where it is known as bingtanghulu, and is often sold at night markets.
Now, with the help of social media, tanghulu has become a global sensation, with people all over the world trying their hand at making these beautiful and delicious jeweled lollipops at home. And with just a few simple steps, you too can create your own tanghulu masterpiece.
Here’s what you’ll need:
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
– Assorted fruit (hawthorn berries, strawberries, grapes, kiwi, etc.)
– Granulated sugar
– Water
– Optional: food coloring
Step 1: Prepare your fruit
Choose your desired fruit and wash them thoroughly. If using hawthorn berries, remove the seeds before skewering. For larger fruits like strawberries and kiwi, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the fruit is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Skewer the fruit
Take your skewers and carefully pierce the fruit through the center. Make sure to leave enough space at the bottom of the skewer for holding.
Step 3: Make the sugar glaze
In a small saucepan, mix equal parts of sugar and water. For every cup of sugar, use 1/4 cup of water. You can also add a few drops of food coloring for a pop of color. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Coat the fruit
Dip the skewered fruit into the sugar glaze, making sure to coat all sides evenly. You can also use a spoon to pour the glaze over the fruit. Allow any excess glaze to drip off before placing the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Let it dry
Allow the tanghulu to dry for at least 30 minutes. You can speed up the process by placing the baking sheet in the fridge or freezer.
Step 6: Enjoy your homemade tanghulu!
Once the glaze has hardened, your tanghulu is ready to be enjoyed. The crispy sugar coating and juicy fruit make for a delicious and refreshing treat. You can also experiment with different fruit combinations and glaze flavors to create your own unique tanghulu.
In addition to being a tasty snack, tanghulu has also been praised for its health benefits. Hawthorn berries, the traditional fruit used in tanghulu, are rich in antioxidants and have been known to aid in digestion and improve heart health. So not only are you indulging in a delicious treat, but you’re also getting some nutritional benefits.
In conclusion, tanghulu is more than just a trend on social media. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a beloved snack in China and Taiwan, and now, you can bring a piece of that culture into your own home. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with your
