Mirror candy

Mirror candy is simply a thin piece of molasses, with a light bronze color. People sprinkle peanuts and white sesame seeds to stimulate the taste buds and make it more delicious. It is a little bit hard on the tongue when eaten. Its cute appearance makes it easy to win the affection of diners. The candy is small and pretty, wrapped in each piece of transparent wrapping paper, making it a meaningful gift for visitors from far away to Hue .

Candy is made from basic, easy-to-find ingredients: sugar, sesame, peanuts, lemon juice, cooking oil... Roast sesame and peanuts; heat sugar and a little water in a pot until it turns light yellow and slightly viscous; add a little lemon juice to prevent the candy from crystallizing and create a characteristic transparency. Then, quickly pour sesame and peanuts into the sugar pot, stir well, pour the hot candy mixture into the prepared mold or tray, use a knife or flat spoon to spread the candy evenly into a thin layer, when the candy is completely cool, cut into small pieces.

Mirror candy is popular in Hue and Quang Ngai , considered a specialty of both regions, but each place has its own variations. Quang Ngai mirror candy is usually thinner, clearer and crispier, while Hue mirror candy is a bit thicker and has a slightly opaque color. Both versions are delicious and have their own appeal. I have had the opportunity to enjoy both and still have a lot of affection for Hue mirror candy, perhaps a favor for hometown gifts?

Quite similar to sesame candy, but mirror candy is easier to eat and lighter. The two types of candy bring two different flavors, one is delicate and elegant; the other is sweet and profound. Mirror candy has a crispy, fragile texture, while sesame candy, because it has a special ingredient called malt, has a characteristic toughness, flexibility and softness. Mirror candy is a specialty of Hue and Quang Ngai, but sesame candy is unique to the ancient capital.

Enjoying mirror candy is an interesting experience, the candy has a light, sweet taste, slowly melts when put in the mouth, bites and sounds like it is crumbling, mixed with the fragrant taste of white sesame and the crunchy, creamy taste of peanuts. Sipping a piece of sweet candy can make the mood immediately excited and happy.

Candy is suitable for poetic afternoon tea, especially when combined with the light astringency of green tea, the purity of lotus tea, the slight bitterness of oolong tea, the light sweetness of chrysanthemum tea and the slightly astringent, sweet aftertaste of black tea..., the sweetness of candy will neutralize. On rainy days in Hue, sitting under the porch with a pot of hot tea, a plate of candy, a close friend, we will feel so relaxed and light-hearted.

Article and photos: Thuc Dan