Tanghulu: Candied Fruit Skewers

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Tanghulu: Candied Fruit Skewers.

1. Step 1

   Start by lining a large baking sheet with paper towels to absorb any moisture from the fruit.

2. Step 2

   Pat the fruit dry to ensure a perfect coating later.

3. Step 3

   Next, take your wooden skewers and divide the fruit among them, placing three pieces on each skewer.

4. Step 4

   Arrange the fruit so that it covers the end of the skewer and the pieces are snugly touching each other, creating a colorful display.

5. Step 5

   In a small, shallow saucepan, mix together sugar, water, and corn syrup.

6. Step 6

   Heat this mixture over medium heat, allowing it to come to a boil without stirring.

7. Step 7

   Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook undisturbed until a candy thermometer reads 300°F (150°C).

8. Step 8

   This should take about 18 to 20 minutes, so keep an eye on it! While the sugar mixture is bubbling away, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water.

9. Step 9

   When the sugar mixture hits the right temperature, carefully remove it from the heat and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes until the bubbling calms down.

10. Step 10

    Gently tilt the pan to pool the syrup to one side.

11. Step 11

    Now comes the fun part! Quickly dip the fruit end of one skewer into the warm sugar mixture, rotating it to ensure a full coat.

12. Step 12

    Let any excess syrup drip back into the pan.

13. Step 13

    Then, place the dipped skewer, fruit side down, into the ice bath for about a minute to cool completely.

14. Step 14

    After that, stand it upright in a heavy cup or saucepan, fruit side up.

15. Step 15

    Repeat this dipping and cooling process with the remaining skewers, working swiftly to keep the syrup from hardening too much.

16. Step 16

    Once you’ve finished, grab some kitchen scissors and trim away any excess sugar drips from the skewers for a neat presentation.

17. Step 17

    Serve these delightful fruit skewers immediately for the best texture and enjoy the sweet, crunchy treat!.