Tanghulu
Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese confection consisting of fruit skewered on a stick and coated with a hard sugar syrup. It is especially popular in Beijing and other regions of northern China, where it has a long history as a representative winter street snack. Traditionally, hawthorn berries are most commonly used, but in recent years, variations with various fruits have become popular. Tanghulu is characterized by its bright red color, glossy candy coating, and crispy texture, making it beloved by people of all ages across different seasons and regions.
- Taste Rating
-
When you bite into the strawberries or grapes, the candy coating cracks crisply and juice bursts out from inside. However, it's a bit disappointing that they aren't quite fresh enough.
- Price
- 5 Yuan Renminbi
- Meal Date
- 9/27/2025
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview
Tanghulu (唐菓儿, 糖葫芦) is a traditional Chinese confection where fruit is skewered and coated with a layer of hardened sugar syrup. It has long been cherished especially in the Huabei (North China) region, centering around Beijing, and is widely known as a winter specialty. Traditionally, Chinese hawthorn (shanzha) berries are used, but in recent years, various fruits such as strawberries, grapes, kiwi, and cherry tomatoes have appeared as alternatives. In Chinese, it is written as “糖葫芦 (Tánghúlu)”, and is characterized by its shiny red appearance and crisp texture.
Origin and History
The origins of Tanghulu are believed to date back to the Song Dynasty (10th–13th century). According to one theory, during the Southern Song period, an empress who was ill recovered after a court physician recommended consuming hawthorn berries with sugar, after which the sweet spread among the common people. Originally, Tanghulu was a winter-only treat because the syrup solidifies more easily in cold weather, so it was typically made during winter. It became popular among ordinary people as a festive confection for fairs, New Year’s celebrations, and festivals such as the Lantern Festival.
Ingredients and Preparation
Traditional Tanghulu is made by skewering Chinese hawthorn berries on bamboo sticks, coating them with boiled sugar syrup, and letting them cool at room temperature so the sugar layer hardens. Today, the ingredients have diversified, and fruits such as strawberries, grapes, kiwi, apples, pineapples, as well as walnuts and dried fruits, are used. Achieving a crispy sugar coating is important, requiring careful temperature control of the syrup and making sure the fruit is dry to ensure the best taste and texture.
| Main Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|
| Chinese Hawthorn | Traditional fruit known for its tartness. |
| Strawberries | Popular in modern times and also enjoyed in Japan. |
| Grapes | Appealing for their color and juicy texture. |
| Sugar Syrup | Creates the crisp outer layer. |
| Skewers | Mostly made of bamboo. |
Tanghulu at Beijing’s Shichahai (Houhai)
Tanghulu enjoys great popularity in Beijing and can be seen year-round at tourist spots, night markets, and street stalls. The Shichahai (Houhai) area, in particular, is a representative location where both locals and tourists enjoy Tanghulu and a variety of snacks amidst the historically preserved hutongs and nostalgic scenery. Here, not only traditional hawthorn but also strawberries and vibrantly colored fruits coated in sugar make for a visually stunning treat, with each vendor offering their own display and variations.
Cultural Aspects and Modern Expansion
While Tanghulu remains a traditional Chinese confection, it has become a popular sweet among domestic and overseas tourists thanks to creative uses of various fruits and nuts and its highly photogenic appearance. It is found not just in major Chinese cities but also in Chinatowns across Southeast Asia and the world, as well as at “Chinese-style street food” events in Japan. Meanwhile, it remains beloved as a winter delicacy in its homeland and is emblematic of street food culture.
Tanghulu and Health
Because it mainly uses fruit, Tanghulu offers an easy way to get vitamins and minerals. However, as the sugar coating involves a large amount of sugar, it is recommended to consume it in moderation. Hawthorn is said to promote digestion and circulation, and has long been used in folk medicinal cuisine.
Summary
Tanghulu is a traditional confection that represents Chinese culture but has evolved with the times, bringing new trends to contemporary food culture. The combination of crisp sugar and juicy fruit is a unique treat everyone should try at least once. Enjoying Tanghulu at Beijing’s Shichahai (Houhai) is a special experience that offers a taste of both culinary and historical heritage.