diff --git a/food_related/sesame_candy.md b/food_related/sesame_candy.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0f9dfd4 --- /dev/null +++ b/food_related/sesame_candy.md @@ -0,0 +1,67 @@ +# Sesame Candy + +## Ingredients: +- 1/2 cup black sesame seeds +- 1/2 cup white sesame seeds +- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable) +- 1/4 cup honey +- 1/3 cup granulated sugar +- 1/4 teaspoon salt +- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) +- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) + +## Equipment: +- Candy thermometer +- Heavy-bottomed medium saucepan +- 8x8 inch baking pan +- Parchment paper +- Silicone spatula + +## Instructions: + +1. Toast the sesame seeds: + - In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast both black and white sesame seeds until they reach 325°F (163°C) on your candy thermometer, stirring constantly (about 3-5 minutes). + - Remove from heat and set aside to cool. + +2. Prepare the pan: + - Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. + - Lightly oil the paper. + +3. Make the sugar syrup: + - In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine oil, honey, sugar, and salt. + - Insert the candy thermometer, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom of the pan. + - Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 230°F (110°C), the thread stage. + +4. Cook to hard-crack stage: + - Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches exactly 300°F (149°C), the hard-crack stage. + - Monitor closely as temperature rises quickly near the end. + +5. Add flavorings and seeds: + - Remove from heat when temperature is reached. + - Quickly stir in the toasted sesame seeds, vanilla extract, and cardamom (if using). + - Work fast as the mixture will start to set. + +6. Shape the candy: + - Immediately pour the mixture into the prepared pan. + - Use a silicone spatula to spread it evenly, working quickly. + +7. Cool and cut: + - Let cool at room temperature until the thermometer reads 95°F (35°C), about 1 hour. + - Once cooled, lift the candy out of the pan using the parchment paper. + - Break or cut into pieces while still slightly warm for clean edges. + +8. Store: + - Once fully cooled to room temperature, store in an airtight container. + - Keep at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. + +## Temperature Guide: +- 230°F (110°C): Thread stage - Sugar syrup initially heated +- 300°F (149°C): Hard-crack stage - Final cooking temperature +- 325°F (163°C): Sesame seed toasting temperature +- 95°F (35°C): Cooling temperature before cutting + +## Notes: +- Calibrate your candy thermometer before use by testing it in boiling water (should read 212°F or 100°C at sea level). +- Adjust final cooking temperature by -1°F for every 500ft above sea level. +- Clean the thermometer promptly after use to prevent sugar crystallization on the probe. +- If the candy is too hard, cook to a slightly lower temperature next time (295°F). If too soft, increase to 305°F. \ No newline at end of file