Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1 cup fresh grapes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 10 wooden skewers
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries and grapes. Skewer them onto the wooden skewers, alternating between strawberries and grapes.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Insert the candy thermometer and continue to boil until the temperature reaches 300°F.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sea salt.
5. Dip each skewer of fruit into the caramel mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Place the skewers onto a sheet of parchment paper to cool and harden.
6. Once the caramel has hardened, serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Boil until the temperature reaches 300°F
Serving size:
- 10 skewers
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 120
- Total fat: 0g
- Total carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of fruit you like, such as pineapple, kiwi, or mandarin oranges.
- You can substitute the sea salt for any type of salt you prefer.
Variations:
- You can add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the caramelized fruit for a decadent twist.
- You can sprinkle chopped nuts or coconut flakes over the caramelized fruit for added texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to wash and dry the fruit thoroughly before skewering.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Work quickly when dipping the fruit into the caramel, as it hardens quickly.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover caramelized fruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the caramelized fruit, place it in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the skewers on a platter with a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramelized fruit for added flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a festive treat.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the caramelized fruit alongside a cheese board for a sweet and savory combination.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the caramel becomes too hard, you can reheat it over low heat until it becomes pliable again.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot caramel, as it can cause burns.
- Make sure to properly store any leftover caramelized fruit to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese snack made from skewered fruit coated in hardened sugar.
Flavor profiles:
- The sweet and tangy fruit pairs perfectly with the salty sea salt and caramel.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the caramelized fruit as a dessert or a sweet snack.
Related Categories
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Region: Chinese
Taste: Sweet, Salty, Caramelized, Crunchy