Tanghulu originated in northern China as a winter snack, where fruit was preserved with a hard sugar coating to make it last longer in cold weather. It became a popular street‑food treat, especially during festivals, symbolizing sweetness and good luck.

While the classic version uses hawthorn berries, regional variations include strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and even candied vegetables. In southern China, a thinner, more translucent coating is favored, whereas northern styles often have a thicker, crunchier shell.

Tanghulu is typically served on a wooden stick, displayed on a tray, and eaten immediately while the sugar shell is still crisp. It is often sold by street vendors who keep the candy coating on ice to maintain its crunch.

Tanghulu is especially popular during the Lunar New Year and the Winter Solstice, when families gather and share sweet treats that symbolize a sweet start to the new year.

Strawberry Tanghulu pairs nicely with other light street snacks such as fried dough twists (you tiao), sesame balls, or a cup of hot green tea to balance the sweetness.

The bright, fresh flavor of strawberries combined with a thin, glass‑like sugar crust creates a unique contrast of juicy fruit and crisp candy that is both visually striking and texturally satisfying.

Common errors include not drying the fruit fully, letting the syrup cool before dipping, and stirring the syrup after it reaches a boil, which can cause crystallization. Follow the critical steps for a flawless coating.

A 2:1 ratio creates a clear, glossy syrup that hardens quickly into a thin, crunchy shell without the amber color of caramel, preserving the fruit’s natural color and flavor.

Yes, you can prepare the syrup ahead and keep it warm. Once coated, store the tanghulu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the sugar shell may become slightly sticky.

The YouTube channel Khin's Kitchen focuses on simple, home‑cooked Asian recipes, especially Burmese and Chinese comfort foods, with clear step‑by‑step demonstrations for everyday cooks.

Khin's Kitchen emphasizes authentic techniques using readily available ingredients, often sharing personal tips and cultural background, whereas many other channels simplify or westernize the recipes.