Imagine biting into a succulent lychee, its delicate sweetness intensified by a luscious sugar syrup. This isn't just any lychee; it's a sugar-soaked marvel, a delightful treat that elevates the simple fruit to a whole new level of deliciousness. The naturally sweet lychee, known for its unique floral aroma and translucent flesh, becomes even more irresistible when gently coaxed with sugar, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors – a delightful dance between juicy fruit and subtly sweet syrup.
This recipe for sugar-soaked lychees is surprisingly simple, transforming ordinary lychees into an extraordinary dessert, perfect for any occasion. Ready to transform these exotic fruits into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own batch of these delectable sugar-soaked lychees.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Pot
- Bowl
- Scissors
- Ice water
Ingredients
- Lychees (Bai Chay variety recommended): 2 kg
- Rock Sugar: 600g
- Filtered Water: 800ml
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Lychees
- Cut off the stems of the lychees.
- Wash the lychees thoroughly.
- Cut off the stem first for easier peeling. Use scissors to carefully remove the seeds and remaining shell.)
- Rinse the peeled lychees with boiling water to remove any impurities. Drain well.
Step 2. Blanch and Shock the Lychees
- Blanch the lychees in boiling water for 3 minutes. Then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water for 20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Step 3. Make the Sugar Syrup
- Combine rock sugar, water, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for another 5 minutes. Let cool completely.
Step 4. Combine and Refrigerate
- Gently add the peeled lychees to the cooled sugar syrup, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Refrigerate for 5-6 hours, or overnight.
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Tips
- Use round Bai Chay lychees for a more delicious result.
- Quickly transferring blanched lychees to ice water helps preserve their texture.
- Avoid over-soaking the lychees in boiling water to prevent spoilage. The salt water wash helps prevent this.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How long do the sugar-soaked lychees last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your sugar-soaked lychees should last for about 5-7 days. The syrup helps preserve them.
2. Can I use canned lychees instead of fresh ones?
While fresh lychees are best for optimal flavor and texture, you can use canned lychees. Just make sure to drain them well before adding them to the syrup.
3. What can I do with the leftover syrup?
The leftover syrup is delicious! You can use it to drizzle over desserts, pancakes, or even use it as a unique cocktail mixer.
So there you have it – a simple yet elegant recipe for sweet and crispy lychees in sugar syrup. Enjoy this delightful treat as a refreshing dessert, a unique snack, or a sophisticated addition to your next gathering. Happy lychee-making!