Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (your choice of flavor)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Pastry brush
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir the mixture once it starts boiling.
3. Attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue boiling the mixture until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the fruit preserves.
5. Pour the mixture onto a large sheet of parchment paper and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and powdered sugar.
7. Brush the surface of the candy with vegetable oil and sprinkle a generous amount of the cornstarch mixture over it.
8. Use a rolling pin to roll the candy into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
9. Spread a thin layer of fruit preserves over the surface of the candy.
10. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the candy into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide.
11. Roll each strip into a tight coil, twisting the ends to seal.
12. Dust the candy with more of the cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
300°F (hard crack stage)
Serving size:
Makes about 2 dozen pieces
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 5mg
Sugar: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any flavor of fruit preserves that you like.
- You can substitute honey or agave nectar for the corn syrup.
Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the candy before rolling it up.
- You can use different flavors of fruit preserves for a variety of colors and flavors.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature.
- Dust the candy with plenty of cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The candy does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the candy on a platter and garnish with fresh fruit or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
Fresh fruit, edible flowers, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
Pairings:
Serve the candy with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
The candy is a sweet treat and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the candy is too sticky, dust it with more cornstarch mixture.
- If the candy is too hard to roll, try warming it up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns.
Food history:
Dragon's Beard Candy is a traditional Chinese sweet that dates back to the Han Dynasty.
Flavor profiles:
The candy is sweet and fruity, with a slightly chewy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the candy as a dessert or a sweet snack.
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Region: Chinese