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Tanghulu
Carolina Gomez

Tanghulu - Chinese Candied Fruit

Tanghulu is a popular Chinese street snack made of skewered fruits coated with a crunchy, glossy sugar shell. With just sugar, water, and fruits like strawberries or grapes, this treat is simple to make and perfect for snacking or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Firm fruits strawberries, grapes, clementines, or blueberries
  • Optional: A few drops of vanilla extract or rose water

Equipment

  • Wooden or bamboo skewers
  • Candy thermometer
  • Saucepan
  • Baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Ice water bowl
  • Kitchen scissors

Method
 

  1. Prepare Fruits: Wash and dry fruits thoroughly to remove moisture. Skewer them.
  2. Make Syrup: Heat sugar and water in a saucepan without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Once it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), remove from heat.
  3. Coat Fruits: Dip skewered fruits in the hot syrup, ensuring even coverage. Let excess syrup drip back into the pan.
  4. Set and Harden: Place coated fruits on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden. Trim any excess sugar with scissors if needed.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve fresh for the best crunch and flavor.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: ~150
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~35 g
  • Sugar: ~20 g
  • Protein: 0 g

Tips & Tricks

  • Fruit Selection: Use firm fruits for easy skewering and better coating.
  • Candy Thermometer: Ensure the syrup reaches 300°F for the perfect hard shell.
  • No Stirring: Avoid stirring the syrup to prevent crystallization.
  • Add Flavor: Enhance syrup with vanilla or rose water for a unique twist.
  • Quick Dipping: Work fast as the syrup hardens quickly when cooled.

Ingredient Substitutes

  • Corn Syrup: Replace with honey for a floral sweetness or simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water).
  • Fruits: Try apple slices, pineapple chunks, or hawthorn berries for variety.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with mixed nuts for a salty contrast.
  • Serve with vanilla ice cream or shaved ice for a refreshing combo.
  • Accompany with green or jasmine tea to balance sweetness.