Indulge your senses with the irresistible allure of homemade black sesame candy – a delightful treat that’s surprisingly easy to create. This ancient ingredient, prized for its rich nutty flavor and impressive health benefits, transforms into a captivating confection that's both elegant and satisfying. Imagine the delicate crunch, the fragrant aroma, and the subtle sweetness that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget the store-bought versions; this recipe unlocks the secrets to crafting a truly exceptional candy, showcasing the pure, unadulterated goodness of black sesame.
This recipe perfectly balances simplicity and sophistication, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques. From humble beginnings, you'll create a sophisticated candy that's perfect for gifting or simply enjoying as a luxurious treat. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and transform simple black sesame seeds into a delectable masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Hand blender
- Pot
- Bowl
- Rolling pin
- Wax paper
- Mold
Ingredients
- Black sesame: 500g
- White sesame: 100g
- Roasted peanuts (shelled): 200g
- Honey: 150g
- Sugar: 260g
- Ginger: 50g
- Lemon: 1 (approx. 40g)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Filtered water: 150ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sesame Seeds and Nuts
- Mix black and white sesame seeds. Wash and dry them thoroughly. Roast on high heat until the water evaporates, then reduce heat and roast until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently. (Look for the white sesame to turn golden and hear a rustling sound).
Step 2. Make the Ginger Syrup
- Peel and blend the ginger until smooth.
- In a pot, combine sugar, salt, honey, and filtered water. Cook over medium heat until boiling. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Add the blended ginger to the boiling sugar mixture. Continue to cook and stir, removing any foam that forms. The heat should remain at medium to medium-low.
- Test the sugar syrup by dropping a small amount into a bowl of cold water. It should solidify and not spread when removed. This indicates the correct consistency.
Step 3. Combine and Mold the Candy
- Crush the roasted peanuts in a bag to a coarse consistency.
- Once the syrup reaches the correct consistency, add the roasted sesame seeds and peanuts. Stir until well combined and the mixture is evenly coated.
- Quickly pour the mixture into a prepared mold. Cover with wax paper and press down using a rolling pin to create an even layer.
Step 4. Cool and Cut
- While still warm, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces. Let it cool completely to become brittle.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Be patient when roasting the sesame seeds to achieve the desired crispiness and fragrance.
- Remove foam that forms during the sugar cooking process.
- Maintain medium to medium-low heat while cooking the sugar syrup to prevent burning.
- Work quickly when adding the sesame and peanuts to the hot syrup and pouring into the mold to prevent cooling.
- Cut the candy while it's still warm for easier cutting and a neater appearance.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the sugar with another sweetener?
While granulated sugar works best for this recipe's texture, you could experiment with a small amount of honey or maple syrup, but it might alter the candy's crispiness and taste slightly. Start with a smaller amount than the sugar called for.
2. How do I store the black sesame candies?
Store your candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them.
3. What if my candy is too sticky?
If your candy is too sticky, it likely needs to cook a little longer. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to burn it!
Making crispy black sesame candy is a rewarding experience, resulting in a delicious and unique treat. This recipe allows you to enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of black sesame seeds in a completely new and exciting way. So, gather your ingredients and start creating your own batch of these irresistible candies!