Sweet & Crunchy Tanghulu Grapes

Tanghulu Grapes are a fun, sweet, and crunchy treat that’s a healthier take on the traditional Chinese candied fruit. This simple recipe coats juicy grapes in a glossy sugar syrup, creating a crispy, crunchy shell that’s both refreshing and satisfying. They make for a great snack, party treat, or edible gift. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible, crunchy grape bites!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of grapes, washed and dried (red, green, or a mix)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup (to prevent crystallization, optional)
• Wooden skewers or sticks (optional for presentation)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Grapes

1. Wash and dry the grapes: Rinse the grapes thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Make sure they are completely dry, as water can cause the sugar syrup to seize up.
2. Skewer the grapes (optional): For an elegant presentation, you can thread the grapes onto wooden skewers. This makes it easier to dip them into the sugar syrup.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup (if using). Stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Cook the syrup: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the sugar has fully dissolved and the syrup has thickened slightly. You want it to reach about 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer (this is the hard crack stage).
3. Remove from heat: Once the syrup reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat immediately. Let it cool slightly for 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Dip the Grapes

1. Dip each grape: Working quickly, dip each grape (or skewer of grapes) into the sugar syrup, coating it entirely in the syrup. Swirl the grape around to ensure even coverage.
2. Let the excess syrup drip off: Hold the grape for a few seconds to let the excess syrup drip off before placing it on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to cool and harden.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Allow to harden: Let the candied grapes sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the syrup to harden and form a crisp, crunchy shell.
2. Serve immediately: Once the candy shell has hardened, the grapes are ready to enjoy! They’ll be sweet, crunchy, and bursting with juiciness.

Tips and Variations:

• Add a sprinkle of salt: For a sweet-and-salty twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the hard candy shell before it fully hardens.
• Use different fruits: You can experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries, tangerines, or apple slices, to make variations of tanghulu.
• Storage: For the best crunch, serve immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Sweet & Crunchy Tanghulu Grapes are a delightful treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The combination of juicy grapes with a crispy, glossy sugar coating makes them a perfect snack, dessert, or party treat. With just a few ingredients, you can create this simple yet decadent treat at home and enjoy the satisfying crunch of tanghulu grapes anytime!