Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups corn syrup
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Pastry brush
- Marble slab or large cutting board
- Pair of scissors
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine corn syrup, granulated sugar, and water. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and insert a candy thermometer. Cook the mixture until it reaches 260°F (127°C), stirring occasionally.
3. Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a minute.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and powdered sugar. Dust a marble slab or a large cutting board with the mixture.
5. Add vegetable oil to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture onto the dusted marble slab or cutting board.
7. Use a pastry brush to spread the mixture evenly on the surface.
8. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the mixture.
9. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes until it becomes slightly firm.
10. Use a pair of scissors to cut the mixture into thin strips.
11. Pick up each strip and stretch it out by pulling it gently with your fingers.
12. Repeat the stretching process until the candy becomes thin and stringy, resembling a dragon's beard.
13. Roll the candy into a ball and serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Cooking temperature: Medium heat
- Candy temperature: 260°F (127°C)
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20-25 pieces of candy
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Total fat: 2g
- Total carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Honey can be used as a substitute for corn syrup.
- Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar.
- Roasted peanuts or almonds can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds.
Variations:
- Add food coloring to the mixture for a colorful candy.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick cooking spray to coat the scissors before cutting the candy to prevent sticking.
- Work quickly while stretching the candy to prevent it from hardening.
Storage instructions:
- Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- To soften the candy, microwave it for a few seconds or place it in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the candy in a decorative bowl or on a platter.
- Wrap the candy in wax paper or cellophane for a gift.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle additional sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top of the candy for added texture.
Pairings:
- Serve the candy with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the candy becomes too hard, microwave it for a few seconds to soften it.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar syrup to prevent burns.
Food history:
- Dragon's Beard Candy is a traditional Chinese sweet that dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD).
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and nutty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the candy as a dessert or a snack.
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Region: Chinese