Candied Hawthorn on Sticks Embellished With Sesame Seeds: A Tangy and Sweet Delight From Huzhou City

Few culinary experiences match the simple pleasure of biting into a glistening, candied hawthorn fruit. Originating from the historical city of Huzhou, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Zhejiang province, this iconic street food is more than just a sugary treat; it’s a testament to Chinese culinary ingenuity and a celebration of seasonal flavors. Known as “Bingtang Hulu” (冰糖葫芦) in Mandarin, these vibrant red treats are a staple across China but hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Huzhou residents.

A Story Steeped in Tradition

Legend has it that candied hawthorn originated during the Song dynasty (960-1279), a golden era for Chinese cuisine renowned for its refinement and artistry. The story goes that a street vendor, seeking to increase sales of his hawthorn fruits, stumbled upon a clever solution: coating them in a sweet glaze made from sugar and water. This innovation proved an instant hit, transforming the tart, astringent hawthorn into a delectable confectionery delight.

Over centuries, the recipe for Bingtang Hulu has been passed down through generations, each family and region adding its own unique twist. In Huzhou, the fruit is typically sourced from nearby orchards, known for their high-quality hawthorns with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The glaze itself is a closely guarded secret, often involving a precise blend of sugar, maltose, and other natural ingredients like ginger or cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.

The Art of Crafting Bingtang Hulu

The process of crafting Bingtang Hulu requires skill and precision. Hawthorn fruits are meticulously selected for their size and ripeness, ensuring each skewer yields juicy and flavorful bites. A skilled vendor will then deftly thread the hawthorns onto long bamboo skewers, creating a visually appealing cascade of crimson fruit.

Next comes the transformation – the coating process. The hawthorn skewers are submerged into a bubbling cauldron of molten sugar syrup, heated to a precise temperature to achieve that irresistible glossy glaze. The syrup must be constantly stirred and monitored to prevent burning or crystallization. As the hot syrup clings to the fruit, it forms a thin, crystalline shell that captures the sweetness and locks in the hawthorn’s natural juices.

While still warm and pliable, the glazed Bingtang Hulu are often adorned with additional embellishments, such as finely chopped sesame seeds or colorful sprinkles. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle textural contrast and a hint of nutty flavor.

A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

Biting into a freshly made Bingtang Hulu is a multi-sensory experience. The initial crunch gives way to the succulent sweetness of the glazed sugar shell, followed by a burst of tart, juicy hawthorn flavor. The subtle spice notes from cinnamon or ginger, often incorporated into the syrup, further elevate the taste profile.

Texturally, Bingtang Hulu offers a delightful interplay between crispness and chewiness. The glaze provides a satisfying crunch while the underlying fruit remains delightfully tender and juicy. The sesame seeds add a delicate nuttiness and a touch of textural contrast.

A Timeless Treat

Bingtang Hulu is more than just a street food; it’s a cultural icon deeply ingrained in Huzhou’s culinary heritage. Its enduring popularity speaks to its simple yet satisfying nature, appealing to both young and old.

Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal, Bingtang Hulu offers a taste of tradition, capturing the essence of Huzhou’s culinary artistry. So next time you find yourself wandering the streets of this charming city, be sure to indulge in this quintessential treat – your taste buds will thank you!