Dragon’s beard candy, a traditional Chinese delicacy, has recently become a viral food trend on TikTok. This sweet treat is known for its intricate, thread-like appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture, similar to cotton candy. It requires a labor-intensive preparation method involving stretching and folding the sugar repeatedly. Dragon’s beard candy dates back almost 2,000 years to the Han dynasty, where it was originally crafted by court chefs for the emperor and royal family. Once a delicacy reserved for the elite, it is now a beloved treat enjoyed during festive occasions.
The candy gets its name from its resemblance to the wispy beard of a dragon, as dragons symbolize power and good fortune in Chinese culture. Dragon’s beard candy serves as a homage to the country’s rich heritage beyond being a delicious treat. TikTok creator Rivata Dutta, known as Riv, has accumulated over 21 million views on her videos documenting the process of making dragon’s beard candy. She believes the trend has caught on due to the challenge of reaching one million strands and people’s interest in visually appealing food preparation videos.
The recipe for dragon’s beard candy includes sugar, corn syrup, vinegar, and water. Dutta recommends specific measurements, including 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1 cup of sugar, 2 ½ tablespoons of corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. The ingredients are combined, heated on the stove, and poured onto a flat, cornstarch-covered surface to cool slightly. The syrup is then pulled and stretched repeatedly to create fine strands, which are twisted and folded into multiple layers. A dusting of cornstarch is applied to prevent sticking before the candy is cut into bite-sized pieces.
Legends about the candy’s origin state that dragon’s beard candy was first made in the imperial palace by skilled chefs. It was considered a luxury item and a symbol of sophistication in ancient times. Beyond the imperial court, dragon’s beard candy has become a favorite during Lunar New Year celebrations and other festivals in China. The candy’s popularity has spread beyond the country’s borders due to its unique texture and appearance. With just a few basic ingredients and some practice, anyone can try their hand at making this historic confection in the comfort of their own kitchen.
The trend of dragon’s beard candy on TikTok aligns with the growing interest in visually appealing food preparation videos. The challenge of reaching a specific number of strands and the satisfaction of counting along with the creators have drawn people to watch these videos. Dutta’s videos, inspired by another TikTok creator, have helped introduce this ancient treat to a new audience. By following the simple recipe and mastering the technique of pulling and twisting the sugar strands, virtually anyone can experience the joy of creating their own dragon’s beard candy at home.
