What To Know
- Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese street food, is a delightful treat consisting of fresh fruits coated in a hardened sugar shell.
- If the sugar mixture becomes too thick, heat it in the microwave for 30-second intervals until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Yes, you can reheat the tanghulu in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its crispy texture.
Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese street food, is a delightful treat consisting of fresh fruits coated in a hardened sugar shell. While traditionally made over an open flame, this recipe offers a convenient and time-saving method using a microwave. Follow these simple steps to create your own mouthwatering microwave tanghulu.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (optional)
- Fresh fruits of your choice (e.g., strawberries, grapes, kiwi)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruits: Wash and dry the fruits thoroughly. Remove any stems or leaves.
2. Make the Sugar Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir until well mixed. If desired, add corn syrup for extra shine.
3. Microwave the Sugar: Microwave the sugar mixture on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it turns a light amber color. Stir the mixture every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
4. Coat the Fruits: Dip the prepared fruits into the hot sugar mixture. Use a fork or skewer to hold the fruits and rotate them to evenly coat.
5. Cool and Harden: Place the coated fruits on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or until the sugar hardens.
6. Enjoy: Your microwave tanghulu is now ready to enjoy! Serve them immediately for a crispy texture.
Tips:
- For a thinner sugar coating, add more water to the mixture.
- If the sugar mixture becomes too thick, heat it in the microwave for 30-second intervals until it reaches the desired consistency.
- To prevent the sugar from crystallizing, add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to the mixture.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle edible glitter or sprinkles over the coated fruits before they harden.
Variations:
- Chocolate Tanghulu: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the sugar mixture for a chocolatey flavor.
- Fruit Salad Tanghulu: Combine various fruits to create a colorful and refreshing treat.
- Savory Tanghulu: Dip vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or carrots into the sugar mixture for a sweet and savory snack.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of microwave tanghulu (1 fruit) contains approximately:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 0g
The Sweet Ending: A Taste of Tradition
Microwave tanghulu is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this traditional Chinese treat. With its crispy sugar coating and fresh fruit flavors, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure today!
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use any type of fruit for tanghulu?
A: Yes, you can use a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, grapes, kiwi, bananas, and pineapple.
Q: How long will the microwave tanghulu last?
A: Microwave tanghulu should be consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Q: How can I prevent the sugar from sticking to my pan?
A: Grease the baking sheet with a thin layer of oil or butter before placing the coated fruits on it.
Q: Can I reheat the microwave tanghulu if it becomes soft?
A: Yes, you can reheat the tanghulu in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its crispy texture.
Q: How can I make the sugar coating extra shiny?
A: Add a few drops of corn syrup or maple syrup to the sugar mixture before microwaving.
