Dragon’s Beard Candy – Korean Street Food Recipe
I still remember the first time I saw Dragon’s Beard Candy being made on the bustling streets of Seoul.
The mesmerizing process of pulling and stretching sugar into thousands of delicate strands felt like pure magic.
This traditional Korean confection, often compared to hand-pulled cotton candy, has a rich history and a delightfully chewy texture.
I became obsessed with perfecting it at home, and today, I’m excited to share this step-by-step guide so you can experience the joy of making this unique candy in your own kitchen!
Essential Kitchen Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy-bottom saucepan | Even heating for sugar syrup | Online or kitchen supply stores |
| Candy thermometer | Ensures precise sugar temperature | Online or baking stores |
| Silicone spatula | Prevents sticking and controls stirring | Kitchen stores or online |
| Mixing bowls | Holds cornstarch and peanuts | Any kitchen store |
| Baking sheet | Used to cool and stretch the candy | Online or home goods stores |
| Fine mesh sieve | Dusts cornstarch evenly | Grocery stores or online |
Prep Time
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling and freezing time)
Ingredients
- 200g Sugar
- 50g Corn syrup
- 100ml Water
- 5g Lemon juice
- Food coloring (optional)
- 500g Corn starch (for dusting)
- 100g Peanuts (crushed, for filling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Dust a large tray or baking sheet with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Crush the peanuts and set them aside for later use.
- Make the Sugar Mixture:
- In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Heat on medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add lemon juice and continue stirring.
- Check the Temperature:
- Using a candy thermometer, heat the syrup to 135-140°C (275-285°F).
- Once it reaches this temperature, remove it from the heat immediately.
- Cool & Shape the Sugar Dough:
- Pour the hot syrup onto a silicone mat or greased baking sheet.
- Let it cool slightly but remain pliable.
- Once firm but flexible, shape it into a thick ring.
- Stretch & Pull:
- Dust your hands with cornstarch.
- Gently stretch the ring, twist it, and fold it back onto itself.
- Repeat this process 14-16 times until you achieve thousands of thin strands.
- Fill with Peanuts:
- Cut the strands into small sections.
- Place crushed peanuts in the center and wrap the candy around them.
- Final Cooling:
- Freeze for 30 minutes to set.
- Serve immediately or store properly.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Avoid humidity, as moisture can make the candy sticky.
- If in a humid climate, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh peanuts for the best flavor.
- Stretch gently—too much force can break the strands.
- Experiment with fillings like sesame seeds or cocoa powder for variations.
- Work quickly to prevent the sugar from hardening before pulling.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 2mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
Yes, but it will alter the texture slightly. Honey is more hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture, which can affect the candy’s consistency.
2. Why is my sugar mixture crystallizing?
Make sure to stir gently and avoid sudden temperature changes. Using a clean brush to wipe down sugar crystals from the pan sides can help.
3. How do I know if my sugar syrup is at the right stage?
A candy thermometer is the best tool, but if you don’t have one, you can drop a bit of the syrup into cold water—it should form a firm, pliable ball.
4. Can I make this candy without food coloring?
Absolutely! The natural color of the sugar strands is a beautiful off-white, but you can add food coloring for a more vibrant look.
5. Is this the same as Chinese Dragon’s Beard Candy?
The technique is similar, but the Chinese version often uses maltose syrup and includes different fillings like sesame seeds and coconut.
Final Thoughts
Making Dragon’s Beard Candy is truly a rewarding experience.
It’s a mix of science and artistry, creating something so delicate yet flavorful.
Whether you’re reliving a street food memory or exploring a new culinary adventure, I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it does for me.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your sweet creations!