Tanghulu: The Ultimate Guide to China’s Famous Candied Fruit
What is Tanghulu?
Tanghulu (糖葫芦) is a traditional Chinese snack made of skewered fruits coated in hardened sugar syrup. Originally made with hawthorn berries, modern variations include strawberries, grapes, and even pineapple chunks. The candy shell provides a satisfying crunch, making Tanghulu a favorite among both locals and tourists.
The History of Tanghulu
Dating back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279), Tanghulu was initially enjoyed by Chinese royalty. It later became a popular street snack found in night markets across China. Traditionally made with Chinese hawthorn, its popularity has expanded worldwide, thanks to social media and food bloggers.
Why is Tanghulu So Popular?
- Crunchy & Sweet: The crispy sugar shell contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the fruit.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, anyone can prepare Tanghulu at home.
- Visually Appealing: The glossy sugar coating makes it a perfect Instagram-worthy treat.
- Fun & Unique: Unlike regular candied fruits, Tanghulu has an unbeatable texture.
How to Make Tanghulu at Home
Ingredients:
- 10-12 fresh fruits (hawthorn berries, strawberries, grapes, etc.)
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional)
- Skewers
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the fruits completely to ensure the sugar sticks.
- Skewer the fruits onto bamboo sticks, arranging them neatly.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Boil without stirring until the syrup reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Dip each fruit skewer into the syrup, ensuring an even coat.
- Place the skewers on parchment paper to cool and harden.
- Enjoy immediately for the best crunch!
Tips for the Perfect Tanghulu
- Use Dry Fruits: Any moisture will prevent the sugar from sticking.
- Monitor the Syrup: Overheating can cause bitterness, while underheating won’t harden properly.
- Work Quickly: The syrup hardens fast, so dip the fruit immediately.
- Experiment: Try different fruits like kiwi, oranges, and even blueberries.
Health Benefits of Tanghulu
While Tanghulu is a sweet treat, it does offer some benefits when made with nutritious fruits:
- Hawthorn berries are known to support heart health.
- Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Grapes contain polyphenols that promote good circulation.
Where to Buy Tanghulu
If making Tanghulu at home isn’t an option, you can find it in various places:
- Chinatown Markets: Many Asian markets have street vendors selling fresh Tanghulu.
- Online Stores: Some specialty stores ship pre-made Tanghulu.
- Food Festivals: Chinese cultural festivals often feature this iconic treat.