Dragon Beard Candy Recipe Without Corn Syrup
Dragon Beard Candy is a traditional Chinese sweet that has been around for centuries. It's made of spun sugar that's been stretched into delicate strands and filled with a variety of nuts and seeds. However, most recipes for Dragon Beard Candy call for corn syrup. For those who don't want to use it, we've got a recipe that doesn't require corn syrup.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted sesame seeds, chopped
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, honey, and cream of tartar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch and powdered sugar. Set aside.
- Once sugar mixture comes to a boil, stop stirring and allow it to cook until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
- Once it reaches 300°F, take it off the heat and immediately stir in peanuts and sesame seeds.
- Quickly pour candy onto a greased surface and let it cool for a minute.
- Dust the cornstarch and powdered sugar mixture over the candy and begin stretching and folding the candy back onto itself repeatedly. This will help create the thin, string-like strands that Dragon Beard Candy is known for.
- Once the candy has been stretched into thin strands, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Why Use Honey Instead of Corn Syrup?
Corn syrup is often used in candy making because it's a liquid sweetener that's easy to work with. However, many people prefer not to use it because it can be highly processed and sometimes contains high fructose corn syrup. Honey, on the other hand, is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and has been used for centuries.
Conclusion
Dragon Beard Candy is a unique and delicious treat that requires a bit of skill to make. This recipe offers a corn syrup-free alternative that not only tastes great, but is also healthier. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your candy-making skills.