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Dragon Beard Candy Recipe Explained (Traditional Chinese Dessert)

A mesmerizing thousand-year-old Chinese court confection. This candy transforms simple sugar and maltose into fine silky strands wrapped around a crunchy nutty center. A true test of patience and skill!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g White Sugar
  • 100 g Maltose Syrup
  • 50 g Water
  • 250 g Roasted Peanuts finely crushed
  • 100 g Sesame Seeds
  • 50 g Cornstarch for dusting

Method
 

  1. Combine sugar, maltose, and water in a heavy-bottomed pot.
  2. Heat over medium flame until it reaches 130°C (hard-ball stage) without stirring.
  3. Pour the hot syrup onto a greased marble slab to cool slightly.
  4. Once cool enough to handle, pull the taffy repeatedly until it turns silvery white.
  5. Form the taffy into a thick ring and continue pulling into hundreds of fine strands.
  6. Cut the fine strands into 4-inch sections.
  7. Place a portion of the peanut mixture in the center of the strands.
  8. Gently roll and twist the strands around the filling to form a tight bundle.
  9. Dust generously with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
  10. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • Humidity ruins this recipe; only attempt on a dry, cool day.
  • The pulling process requires quick hands; work fast before the taffy hardens.
  • If the taffy becomes too stiff, warm it slightly in the microwave for 5 seconds.
  • Store in an airtight container with desiccant to keep strands from clumping.

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