Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cornstarch, granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes until the mixture is cool enough to handle.
3. Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar and turn the candy mixture out onto it. Knead the mixture until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Roll the candy mixture out into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Spread almond butter over the surface of the candy, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the almond butter.
7. Starting from one of the long sides, roll the candy up tightly, like a jelly roll.
8. Use a sharp knife to cut the candy roll into small pieces, about 1 inch long.
9. Use a pastry brush to dust each piece with powdered sugar.
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Cook the candy mixture until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 20 pieces of candy.
Nutritional information:
Each piece of candy contains approximately:
- 90 calories
- 1g protein
- 17g carbohydrates
- 2g fat
- 0mg cholesterol
- 10mg sodium
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any nut butter in place of almond butter.
- You can use any chopped nuts in place of almonds.
Variations:
- You can add other fillings to the candy, such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- You can experiment with different nut butters and chopped nuts to create different flavors.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to knead the candy mixture well to ensure a smooth texture.
- Dusting the surface with powdered sugar will prevent the candy from sticking.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the candy into pieces to prevent it from squishing.
Storage instructions:
Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
The candy does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the candy on a platter or in a decorative candy dish.
Garnishes:
You can garnish the candy with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Pairings:
This candy pairs well with tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
This candy is a dessert and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the candy mixture is too sticky, add more cornstarch.
- If the candy mixture is too dry, add more water.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot candy mixture.
- Store the candy in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Dragon's Beard Candy is a traditional Chinese candy that dates back to the Han Dynasty.
Flavor profiles:
This candy is sweet and nutty, with a soft and chewy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this candy as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Region: Chinese