The sharp, spicy bite of ginger, transformed into a sweet and satisfying candy – it's a festive treat that's both delightful and surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget expensive store-bought sweets; this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creating a candy that's both a delicious indulgence and a warming winter warmer. The vibrant, translucent quality of the finished candy makes it a beautiful addition to any holiday gathering or a delightful little gift for friends and family. Imagine the satisfying crunch and the lingering warmth of ginger spreading through your mouth...
This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and equipment, making it accessible to even novice cooks. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the ginger to achieving the perfect candy consistency. Ready to embark on this delicious adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own batch of irresistible crystallized ginger candy.
Tools Needed
- Bowls
- Knife
- Grater
- Pot
- Basket
- Scale
Ingredients
- Ginger: 1.5 ha (approx. 300-500g)
- Green Papaya: 300-500g
- Brown Sugar
- Salt
- Lemon: 2+ (for soaking and flavoring)
- White Sesame Seeds
- Peanuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Blanch Ginger
- Peel and soak ginger in diluted salt water with lemon for about 1 hour . This removes resin and dirt .
- Shred ginger as finely as possible . Soak shredded ginger in lemon salt water again to remove pungent smell and prevent blackening . Soak for 2-3 hours or even overnight .
- Boil the soaked ginger for 20 minutes . Add papaya and boil for another 5 minutes .
- Drain and rinse the ginger and papaya thoroughly .
Step 2. Combine and Cook the Candy
- Grate the green papaya .
- Weigh the ginger and papaya mixture. Use approximately 600g of sugar per 1.5kg of ginger and papaya .
- Add juice from minced pineapple . This helps the sugar to penetrate the ginger better .
- Combine ginger, papaya, sugar, salt, and pineapple juice. Mix well, then simmer over low heat for approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until all water evaporates . Stir frequently to prevent sticking .
- Add lemon juice to help prevent the candy from sticking .
Step 3. Add Mix-ins and Cool
- Once dry, stir in roasted peanuts and white sesame seeds to taste .
- Allow the candy to cool completely before serving or storing .
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Use ginger that's not too old or too young for optimal flavor and texture .
- Soaking the ginger helps remove the pungent smell and prevents discoloration .
- Simmer the candy slowly to avoid burning and ensure a beautiful color .
- Use a moderate amount of peanuts and sesame seeds to complement, not overpower, the ginger flavor .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How long does crystallized ginger candy keep?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your crystallized ginger candy should last for about 2-3 weeks. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life, but may slightly alter the texture.
2. Can I use fresh ginger instead of candied ginger?
Yes! While candied ginger is convenient, you can certainly use fresh ginger. Just be sure to peel and thinly slice it before following the recipe's instructions. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
3. What if my candy doesn't set properly?
This usually means your syrup hasn't reached the correct temperature. Use a candy thermometer to ensure you're reaching the hard-crack stage. If it's still too soft, return it to the heat and simmer gently, testing again with the thermometer until it reaches the right consistency.
Making crystallized ginger candy is a rewarding experience, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing treat. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the unique flavors of ginger in a completely new way, perfect for gifting or savoring yourself. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet, spicy satisfaction of homemade crystallized ginger candy!