Why Is Dalgona Candy So Popular?

Dalgona Candy’s appeal lies in its blend of tradition and modern pop culture. Originating from Korean street food, it evokes nostalgia for simpler times. Its role in the hit series Squid Game brought it international fame, making it a symbol of challenge and delight. The combination of an engaging activity and a sweet treat ensures its charm resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.

The Art of Making Korean Dalgona Candy

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of sugar

• A pinch of baking soda (measured carefully for the best reaction)

Tools:

• A non-stick pan or a deep ladle

• Heat-resistant chopsticks or a sturdy spoon for stirring

• Parchment paper to prevent sticking

• Cookie cutters or a small, flat object (like a dish) for pressing

• A cooling surface (silicone mat or parchment paper preferred)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dalgona Candy

1. Prepare Your Workspace

• Lay out a clean, flat surface and cover it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Arrange your cookie cutters and pressing tools within easy reach, as the candy sets quickly once poured.

2. Melt the Sugar

• Place your non-stick pan or ladle over low heat to avoid scorching.

• Add the sugar gradually, stirring continuously with chopsticks or a spoon until it dissolves evenly.

• Stir consistently until the sugar turns into a smooth, golden liquid. Avoid leaving it unattended, as it can burn quickly.

(Visual suggestion: Provide step-by-step images showing sugar’s transformation from granules to a smooth liquid.)

3. Add Baking Soda

• Remove the pan from heat immediately after the sugar melts to prevent overcooking.

• Stir in a small pinch of baking soda. This will cause the mixture to foam and lighten in color due to a chemical reaction.

• Mix quickly and thoroughly to ensure an even texture without over-stirring, which might cause the candy to collapse.

(Visual suggestion: Highlight the foaming process with a close-up image, showing the reaction step.)

4. Shape and Press the Candy

• Pour the foamy mixture onto parchment paper in small, round portions for individual candies.

• Allow the candy to cool slightly until it’s pliable but not hardened.

• Gently press the surface with a flat object to flatten it evenly. Quickly imprint your cookie cutter design without cutting all the way through.

(Visual suggestion: Show an image of a variety of shapes pressed into the candy, emphasizing the precision needed.)

5. Cool and Serve

• Let the candies cool completely until they harden and achieve a glossy finish.

• Once cooled, carefully peel them off the parchment paper. They are now ready to eat or use for the iconic shape-carving game.

Fun Tips and Tricks

• Get Creative with Shapes: Experiment with unique cookie cutter designs to add a personal touch to your candies.

• Master Heat Management: Keeping the heat low and consistent prevents the sugar from burning and ensures a smooth, caramelized texture.

• Recreate the Squid Game Challenge: Host a fun game night where friends or family attempt to carve shapes out of the candy without breaking it. Reward winners with small prizes or bragging rights.