In the vibrant and action-packed movie Ne Zha, the story is steeped in Chinese culture and folklore. While the film focuses on epic battles and heartwarming moments, it also inspires us to explore traditional Chinese treats. One snack that fits perfectly with the movie’s fiery energy and cultural roots is Tanghulu—a delightful candied fruit skewer that’s sweet, crunchy, and fun to make at home!
The Connection Between Tanghulu and Ne Zha
Tanghulu, often sold as a street food in China, is made by coating fresh fruits in a hardened sugar glaze. Its bright, glossy appearance and bold flavors remind us of Ne Zha’s fiery personality and the vibrant visuals of the film. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or introducing your kids to a piece of Chinese culture, Tanghulu is a perfect treat to enjoy while watching Ne Zha.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh fruits (traditional: hawthorn berries; alternatives: strawberries, grapes, or mandarin orange segments)
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of water
- Bamboo skewers
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruits: Wash and dry your fruits thoroughly. If using larger fruits like strawberries or mandarin orange segments, remove any stems or peels as needed.
- Skewer the Fruits: Carefully thread the fruits onto bamboo skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even coating.
- Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat on medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. Let it simmer until it reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Coat the Fruits: Dip each skewer into the hot sugar syrup, ensuring all the fruits are evenly coated. Place the coated skewers on parchment paper or a silicone mat to cool and harden.
- Enjoy: Once the sugar has hardened, your Tanghulu is ready to serve. Enjoy the satisfying crunch with every bite!
Tips for Success
- Use dry fruits to help the sugar stick better.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, watch for the syrup to turn a light amber color—this indicates it’s ready.
- Be cautious when working with hot sugar syrup—it can burn!
Parent’s Corner
Making Tanghulu can be a fun activity to share with your kids! While the sugar syrup part requires adult supervision due to the high heat, kids can help wash, dry, and skewer the fruits. To add some creative flair, let them mix and match fruits or even sprinkle edible glitter over the finished Tanghulu. Just be mindful of the mess—placing parchment paper on your workspace can help with cleanup. For families with dietary restrictions, you can experiment with sugar alternatives, but keep in mind that the traditional glaze relies on regular sugar for its crispness.
Conclusion
Tanghulu is not just a delicious snack—it’s a cultural experience that brings a touch of China to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a themed movie night or simply craving something sweet and crunchy, these candied fruit skewers are sure to delight. Share your creations on social media and let us know your favorite fruit combinations!