Buzz
At this point, they will press firmly to let the flour fall out completely, then spread it evenly onto the rice paper. Hence, the candy is simply called 'pressed candy'.
The next layer is shredded coconut. The coconut is kept intact in its shell, ensuring it remains fresh and sweet when shredded.
Next comes the roasted peanuts, already shelled, emitting a fragrant aroma. Finally, condensed milk with sugar is added. To finish, the seller will add another layer of rice paper on top.
Despite the main ingredients being sugar, the candy is not overly sweet due to the blend of other flavors. Biting into it, you'll experience a chewy texture. As you chew, you'll taste the chewiness of the rice paper wrapped around, the creamy but not overwhelming taste of coconut, along with the nutty and fragrant flavor of freshly shredded coconut, the distinctive aroma of roasted peanuts, condensed milk creating a uniquely flavorful experience.
However, it's advisable to consume the candy early, as in the hot weather of Saigon, the sugar, milk, and coconut water may melt, causing the candy to become wet and lose its original fragrance. Depending on preference, buyers can request adjustments to the ingredients used in the candy.
Each piece is priced at 5,000 Vietnamese dong.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Saigon, if you want to reminisce about childhood, visit the area around Ho Chi Minh City University of Education. The University of Natural Sciences (Nguyen Van Cu Street, District 5) to rediscover the taste of the sweet candies of yesteryears.
The candy vendors' vehicles are usually simple bicycles with small boxes at the back containing ingredients, a pair of speakers broadcasting as they pedal along. They typically sell taffy candies as both are made from the same main ingredient, which is sugar.
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Source: Travel Guide Mytour – Via Afamily.vn
MytourSeptember 9, 2013
