16 Chinese Date Walnut Candy Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
The Chinese date walnut candy is a traditional sweet treat that has been enjoyed for centuries in China. This delectable candy combines the rich and nutty flavor of walnuts with the sweet and chewy texture of Chinese dates. Not only is it a delicious snack, but it also has many health benefits due to the nutritious ingredients it contains. In this article, we will explore the history of this candy and provide a step-by-step recipe for you to make it at home.
Looking for a sweet and chewy treat to enjoy with your beer can chicken? These Chinese chews are the perfect addition to your meal. Made with a combination of dates, nuts, and coconut, these bars are packed with flavor and nutrients. They are also easy to make and can be stored for later snacking.
2of 20
Date Walnut Bars
Main Ingredients: Blanched Almond Flour, Sea Salt, Baking Soda, Large
Incorporate another classic flavor combination into your beer can chicken meal with these date walnut bars. The sweetness of the dates pairs perfectly with the crunch of the walnuts, creating a delicious and satisfying treat. These bars are also great for on-the-go snacking or as a dessert option.
3of 20
Carrot Banana Muffins
Main Ingredients: Blanched Almond Flour, Baking Soda, Sea Salt, Cinnamon
For a healthier option, try these carrot banana muffins alongside your beer can chicken. These muffins are packed with nutrients and flavor, thanks to the combination of carrots, bananas, and warm spices like cinnamon. They are also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed as a breakfast or snack option.
4of 20
Chinese Sticky Rice Cake with Coconut Milk, Steamed...
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice Flour, Rice Flour, Sugar, Water, Coconut
Add a taste of Chinese cuisine to your beer can chicken meal with this sticky rice cake. Made with coconut milk and steamed for a soft and chewy texture, this cake is a unique and delicious choice. It can also be easily customized with the addition of your favorite fruits or nuts.
5of 20
Twice-Cooked Chinese Pork Belly
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Groundnut Oil, Soft Brown Sugar, Cloves
Pork belly is a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine, and this twice-cooked version makes for a tasty complement to your beer can chicken. The pork belly is first boiled and then stir-fried with a flavorful combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Serve it alongside your chicken for a satisfying and hearty meal.
6of 20
EASY 3-Ingredient Raw Energy Protein Bars
Main Ingredients: Raw Almonds, Dates, Walnuts, Cinnamon, Salt
If you're looking for a quick and easy snack option to enjoy with your beer can chicken, these raw energy protein bars are a great choice. Made with just three ingredients – dates, nuts, and protein powder – these bars pack a punch of flavor and nutrients. They are also great for pre or post-workout snacking.
7of 20
Cotton Candy Cashew Cheesecake
Main Ingredients: Dates, Walnuts, Coconut, Cashew Nuts, Maple Syrup
For a fun and unique dessert option, try this cotton candy cashew cheesecake. The creamy and decadent cheesecake is topped with a layer of cotton candy for a pop of sweetness and a touch of whimsy. It's the perfect way to end your beer can chicken meal on a sweet note.
8of 20
Chinese Charoset
Main Ingredients: Dates, Apples, Pine Nuts, Soy Sauce, Honey, Orange
Add a touch of tradition to your beer can chicken meal with this Chinese charoset recipe. Similar to a fruit and nut paste commonly enjoyed during Passover, this version incorporates Chinese ingredients like dates, apples, and almonds. It's a delicious and symbolic addition to any meal.
Warm up with a bowl of Chinese chicken mushroom soup alongside your beer can chicken. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, thanks to the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and Chinese herbs. It's a comforting and delicious way to round out your meal.
For a unique twist on a classic soup, try this Chinese yam soup with your beer can chicken. The yams add a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the broth, while the addition of Chinese herbs and spices creates a flavorful and nourishing dish. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
11of 20
Chinese Chicken Soup with Herbs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Chicken Broth, Water, Soup Mix, Chinese
A hearty and nourishing soup is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken, and this Chinese chicken soup with herbs fits the bill perfectly. Made with a combination of chicken, Chinese herbs, and vegetables, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's also a great way to use up any leftover chicken from your meal.
12of 20
No-Bake Nut & Date Energy Balls
Main Ingredients: Raw Almonds, Walnuts, Raisins, Dates, Cinnamon
For a quick and easy snack option to enjoy during or after your beer can chicken meal, try these no-bake nut and date energy balls. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including dates, nuts, and oats, these balls are packed with energy and flavor. They are also great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for later snacking.
13of 20
Clear Soup Chinese Hot Pot
Main Ingredients: Chicken Carcass, Pork Bones, Ginger, Scallions, Goji
Add a touch of heat to your beer can chicken meal with this clear soup Chinese hot pot recipe. The hot pot is a popular Chinese dish that features a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a flavorful broth at the table. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal with friends and family.
14of 20
Chinese Ginger Tea with Red Dates
Main Ingredients: Water, Ginger, Dates, Sugar
After your beer can chicken meal, enjoy a cup of Chinese ginger tea with red dates for a soothing and refreshing beverage. This tea is made with fresh ginger, red dates, and honey, creating a warm and comforting drink that aids in digestion. It's a great way to end your meal on a light and healthy note.
15of 20
Date Muffins With Walnuts
Main Ingredients: Milk, Egg, Vanilla, Flour, Salt, Baking Powder, Sugar
Another delicious muffin option to enjoy with your beer can chicken are these date muffins with walnuts. These muffins are packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the combination of dates, walnuts, and warm spices. They are also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed as a snack or breakfast option.
16of 20
Chinese Double Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry
Main Ingredients: Cashews, Red Onion, Garlic, Broccoli, Dates, Plum
Looking for a flavorful and healthy side dish to serve with your beer can chicken? This Chinese double garlic broccoli stir-fry is a great option. The broccoli is cooked until tender and then tossed with a delicious combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's a quick and easy dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
17of 20
No Bake Cheesecake with Berries
Main Ingredients: Walnuts, Cashews, Dates, Vanilla Extract, Sea Salt, Raw
For a lighter and fresher dessert option, try this no-bake cheesecake with berries alongside your beer can chicken. Made with a creamy and tangy filling and a sweet and crunchy graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is topped with a mix of fresh berries for a burst of flavor and nutrients. It's a great way to end your meal on a lighter note.
18of 20
Chinese Watercress Soup (Sai Yong Choy Tong)
Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Watercress, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Add some green to your beer can chicken meal with this Chinese watercress soup recipe. Watercress is a nutritious and flavorful leafy green that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. This soup is also packed with other ingredients like pork and dates, creating a hearty and delicious dish.
19of 20
Super Powered Oatmeal Bars
Main Ingredients: Bananas, Water, Coconut Oil, Nut Butter, Vanilla
For a healthy and filling snack option to enjoy with your beer can chicken, try these super powered oatmeal bars. Made with oats, nuts, dried fruit, and seeds, these bars are packed with energy and nutrients. They are also great for on-the-go snacking or as a pre or post-workout treat.
20of 20
Chinese Long Beans and Cashews in Smoky Date “Not...
Main Ingredients: Chinese Long Beans, Organic Coconut Oil, Red Chile
Add some crunch and flavor to your beer can chicken meal with this Chinese long beans and cashews dish. The long beans are stir-fried with cashews, garlic, and Chinese spices, creating a delicious and satisfying side dish. It's a great way to add some variety and texture to your meal.
The History of Chinese Date Walnut Candy
Chinese date walnut candy, also known as "zao zhi gan," has a long history in Chinese culture. It is said that this candy was first created during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD) as a treat for the imperial family. The combination of walnuts and Chinese dates was believed to provide nourishment and energy, making it a popular snack among the royal court.
Over time, the candy became a staple in Chinese households and was often given as gifts during special occasions such as weddings and holidays. Today, it is still a beloved treat in China and can be found in many traditional markets and specialty shops.
The Nutritional Benefits
Apart from its delicious taste and cultural significance, Chinese date walnut candy also has many health benefits. The main ingredient, Chinese dates, are known for their high levels of antioxidants, which can boost the immune system and improve digestion. They are also a good source of iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells.
Walnuts, on the other hand, are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improved heart health and reduced inflammation. Incorporating these nutritious ingredients into a sweet treat makes Chinese date walnut candy a guilt-free indulgence.
The Recipe
Now that you know the history and health benefits of Chinese date walnut candy, it's time to try making it yourself. Here is a simple recipe that will yield about 40 pieces of candy:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Chinese dates
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Remove the pits from the Chinese dates and chop them into small pieces.
2. Crush the walnuts into small pieces using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
3. In a pan, heat the sugar and water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the chopped dates and crushed walnuts to the pan, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides.
5. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vegetable oil.
6. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then shape it into small balls or squares.
7. Roll the candy in sesame seeds if desired.
8. Let the candy cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
In conclusion, Chinese date walnut candy is not only a delicious traditional treat but also a nutritious snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. With this recipe, you can recreate this sweet and healthy candy in the comfort of your own home. So go ahead and give it a try and enjoy the taste of China in every bite.