When it comes to sweet treats, few things compare to the delightful combination of flavors and textures found in traditional Chinese Tanghulu. For those who may not be familiar with this ancient snack, Tanghulu is essentially a fruit kebab or skewer that’s been coated in a sticky syrup made from sugar, water, and sometimes other ingredients like honey or rosewater. The result is a sweet and tangy treat that’s both refreshing and addictive.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Tanghulu recipes that incorporate a wide variety of fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices to create unique and mouth-watering flavor combinations. From classic pairings like hawthorn berries and sesame seeds, to more adventurous combinations like pineapple with coconut flakes or kiwi with mandarin orange, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Chinese Tanghulu with Hawthorn Berries
Tanghulu is a beloved Chinese dessert that combines sweet and sour flavors, perfect for warm weather. This recipe uses hawthorn berries to add a unique twist to the traditional tanghulu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hawthorn berries
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the hawthorn berries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a syrup-like consistency.
3. Add the hawthorn berries to the syrup and stir well to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
6. Pour the tanghulu into a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Strawberry Tanghulu with Sesame Seeds
Tanghulu, a popular Chinese street snack, gets a delicious twist with the addition of crunchy sesame seeds and sweet strawberries. This recipe is perfect for those who love a mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– Wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Thread a strawberry slice onto each skewer or toothpick.
4. Dip the strawberry into the sugar syrup, coating it evenly.
5. Roll the coated strawberry in sesame seeds to coat.
6. Place the Tanghulu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing the sugar syrup) + chilling time
Blueberry and Grape Tanghulu Skewers
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these colorful and refreshing Blueberry and Grape Tanghulu Skewers! This easy-to-make snack is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party or just a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 cup red grapes, cut in half
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon citrus zest (optional)
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and honey until well combined.
2. Thread a blueberry and a grape onto each wooden skewer.
3. Dip each fruit combination into the sugar-honey mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Pineapple Tanghulu with Coconut Flakes
Pineapple Tanghulu with Coconut Flakes Recipe
Summary: A refreshing twist on the classic Chinese tanghulu, this recipe adds a tropical touch by incorporating pineapple and coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapples chunks
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon citric acid
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Combine the pineapple, sugar, and water in a large bowl. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pineapple mixture, stirring constantly.
3. Cook over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding any solids.
6. Add the citric acid, salt, coconut flakes, and honey to the pineapple syrup. Stir well to combine.
7. Pour the tanghulu into a shallow metal pan or onto a parchment-lined surface. Allow it to cool and set before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kiwi and Mandarin Orange Tanghulu
Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese dessert, is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating kiwi and mandarin orange for a refreshing and fruity twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kiwi, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add kiwi and mandarin orange segments to the syrup. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the fruit is coated with the sweet and tangy mixture.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
4. Once cooled, use a fork to dip each piece of fruit into the syrup, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated fruit onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of Tanghulu
Enjoy your sweet and tangy kiwi and mandarin orange Tanghulu!
Cherry Tomato Tanghulu with Honey Drizzle
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional tanghulu with this sweet and sour cherry tomato recipe, perfect for warm weather. This easy-to-make snack combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the tartness of citrusy vinegar and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in white vinegar.
4. Dip cherry tomato halves into the syrup for about 30 seconds per side.
5. Place dipped tomatoes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle honey over the tomatoes, allowing excess to drizzle off.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Apple Slices Tanghulu with Cinnamon Dust
Tanghulu, a popular Chinese street snack, gets a delicious twist with the addition of cinnamon dust to crispy apple slices. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon for a perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens.
2. Add sliced apples to the syrup and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are coated in the sweet mixture.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry apple slices in batches until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Sprinkle cinnamon dust (mix equal parts sugar and cinnamon) over the fried apples while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (including cooling time)
Watermelon Tanghulu with Chili Powder
Cool down this summer with a refreshing twist on the classic Chinese dessert, tanghulu. This spicy-sweet treat combines juicy watermelon with a kick of chili powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 large watermelon, cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and chili powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the cubed watermelon to the saucepan and toss to coat evenly with the sugar mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour the mixture into the saucepan and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the watermelon is tender and the syrup has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Peach Tanghulu with Almond Crunch
Transform the classic Chinese dessert, tanghulu, into a unique and flavorful treat by combining juicy peaches with crunchy almonds. This sweet and savory fusion is perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup almond slices
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together sugar and water until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the peach slices to the syrup and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat.
4. Remove the peaches from the syrup and cook them in the pan for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, mix together honey and almond slices.
6. Once the peaches are cooked, coat them with the almond-honey mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Tanghulu with Chocolate Drizzle
Tanghulus are a popular Chinese dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a satisfying crunch from deep-fried batter. In this recipe, we take it to the next level by adding a rich chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, dip each banana piece into the flour mixture, coating evenly, then fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
5. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fried bananas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Raspberry and Blackberry Tanghulu Duo
Tanghulu is a popular Chinese street snack that combines fresh fruit with a sweet and sticky syrup. This recipe takes the classic treat to new heights by pairing juicy raspberries and blackberries in a harmonious duo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Dip fresh raspberries and blackberries into the syrup using skewers or toothpicks.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
Pear Tanghulu with Ginger Infusion
Discover a unique twist on traditional Chinese candied fruit, as we combine the natural sweetness of pears with the warmth of ginger. This recipe yields a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), sliced into wedges
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced thinly
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and add sliced ginger. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Dip pear slices into the hot syrup, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Place coated pears on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grapefruit Tanghulu with Sea Salt Sprinkle
Grapefruit Tanghulu with Sea Salt Sprinkle Recipe
Experience the sweet and sour delight of China’s traditional street snack, Tanghulu, infused with the tanginess of grapefruit. This refreshing treat is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grapefruits (juice and segments)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
– 10-12 fresh grapefruit slices for serving
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and add citric acid. Stir well.
3. Dip fresh grapefruit slices into the syrup, coating evenly. Let excess liquid drip off before placing on a wire rack or tray to dry completely.
4. Once dry, place the grapefruit Tanghulu slices on a serving plate. Sprinkle with sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking time for the syrup) + drying time (30-60 minutes)
Mango Tanghulu with Toasted Coconut
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of mangoes with the crunch of toasted coconut flakes, perfect for warm weather or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
2. Add diced mangoes to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender and the syrup has thickened further.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in toasted coconut flakes and salt. Let it cool completely before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate Tanghulu with Rose Petals
Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese street snack, gets a luxurious twist with the addition of rose petals and pomegranate. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cups fresh pomegranate arils
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– Fresh rose petals (about 10-12)
– Wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater.
4. Let the syrup cool slightly.
5. Thread pomegranate arils onto skewers or toothpicks, leaving a small space between each aril.
6. Dip the arils into the cooled syrup, coating them evenly.
7. Place coated arils on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Garnish with fresh rose petals and let dry for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Lychee Tanghulu with Pistachio Crust
A twist on the classic Chinese dessert, Lychee Tanghulu, this recipe adds a crunchy pistachio crust to the sweet and tangy lychees. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lychees
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the lychees, sugar, and water. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the lychees to absorb the liquid.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the pistachios and cornstarch.
4. Remove the lychees from the liquid and roll each one in the pistachio mixture to coat.
5. Place the coated lychees on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with honey.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pistachio crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fig Tanghulu with Balsamic Glaze
This sweet and sour fig tanghulu recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh figs with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh figs, stems removed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the fresh figs to the syrup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender and coated in the syrup.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the figs and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Persimmon Tanghulu with Walnut Bits
Tanghulu, a popular Chinese street snack, combines the natural sweetness of persimmons with the crunchiness of walnuts. This recipe adds a delightful twist by incorporating walnut bits into the sweet and tangy mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh persimmons, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the persimmon cubes, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the persimmons are tender.
3. Mix in the cornstarch and cook for an additional minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts and honey.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then use a fork to shape into small clusters.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to satisfy your sweet cravings with these 18 delicious tanghulu recipes! Tanghulu is a popular Chinese treat that combines fresh fruits and nuts in a sweet and tangy glaze. From classic flavors like hawthorn berries to innovative combinations like strawberry and sesame seeds, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making pineapple tanghulu with coconut flakes, kiwi and mandarin orange skewers, or even watermelon tanghulu with chili powder. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to impress!
