How to make tanghulu in the microwave ?

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Tanghulu, a popular Chinese street food, typically involves fruit skewers coated in a hardened sugar syrup. Making tanghulu traditionally requires cooking the sugar syrup on the stovetop, but you can also prepare a simplified version using a microwave. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making tanghulu in the microwave:

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, grapes, or hawthorns)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Skewers or toothpicks

Equipment:

  • Microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup
  • Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
  • A spoon or small whisk

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

  1. Wash and Dry Fruit:
    • Thoroughly wash the fruit and pat it dry with a paper towel. It’s important that the fruit is dry so the sugar syrup can adhere properly.
  2. Skewer the Fruit:
    • Thread the fruit onto skewers or toothpicks, leaving enough space to hold the skewer comfortably.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

  1. Mix Sugar and Water:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of water. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  2. Microwave the Mixture:
    • Microwave the sugar and water mixture on high for 3-4 minutes, stopping to stir every 1 minute. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot. Continue microwaving until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup reaches a thick, bubbling consistency. This might take around 6-7 minutes in total.
    • Tip: The exact time can vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking or burning the syrup.

Step 3: Coat the Fruit

  1. Dip the Fruit:
    • Carefully dip each skewered fruit into the hot sugar syrup, ensuring it’s evenly coated. You may need to tilt the bowl slightly to fully submerge the fruit.
  2. Allow to Harden:
    • Place the coated fruit on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to cool and harden. The sugar coating should harden within a few minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Check for Hardness:
    • Ensure the sugar coating is completely hardened before serving. The tanghulu should have a glossy, crackling sugar shell.
  2. Serve Immediately:
    • Tanghulu is best enjoyed fresh. Serve the skewered, sugar-coated fruit as a delightful, crunchy treat.

Tips:

  • Use Fresh, Dry Fruit: Ensure the fruit is fresh and thoroughly dried to help the sugar syrup adhere better.
  • Monitor the Syrup Closely: Microwave times can vary, so keep a close eye on the syrup to avoid burning.
  • Handle with Care: The sugar syrup is extremely hot, so handle with caution to avoid burns.
  • Work Quickly: The sugar syrup can harden quickly, so work swiftly to coat the fruit once the syrup is ready.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a quick and easy version of tanghulu made in the microwave. This method simplifies the traditional recipe while still delivering the delicious, crunchy texture of the classic treat.

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