Trying the Dalgona Candy Inspired by ‘Squid Game’
The craze surrounding the South Korean dalgona candy, propelled to fame by its appearance in “Squid Game” and subsequent TikTok trends, intrigued me. Despite reports of accidents, I embarked on the journey to recreate this iconic treat.
Exploring the Recipe
After immersing myself in the gripping world of “Squid Game,” I cautiously approached The New York Times’ dalgona recipe. With just a few ingredients — sugar, baking soda, and vegetable oil — and a vigilant mindset, I was ready to begin.
Cooking Process
- Preparation: I meticulously arranged my ingredients, ensuring a safe and organized workspace.
- Melting Sugar: Heating sugar over the stove, I stirred with caution, mindful of potential hazards. The gradual transformation from gooey toffee-colored syrup to a smooth golden mixture was mesmerizing.
- Adding Baking Soda: Incorporating baking soda, the concoction took on a light and airy consistency, accompanied by the nostalgic aroma of caramelizing sugar.
- Shaping the Candy: Swiftly pouring the mixture onto parchment paper, I flattened it with a skillet and stamped it with a cookie cutter. The candy solidified rapidly, requiring nimble hands and quick movements.
Crafting the Dalgona
The carving process, reminiscent of a popular South Korean children’s game, proved both exciting and challenging. While simple shapes yielded successful results, intricate designs posed greater difficulty. Despite some mishaps, the taste of the dalgona — nutty, sweet, with a delightful toffee-like texture — made the endeavor worthwhile.
Conclusion
Despite initial apprehension, crafting dalgona candy was an enjoyable experience. Its rich flavors and simple preparation process evoke fond childhood memories, ensuring a repeat performance in the future. As for the game of carving intricate designs, I may need more practice, but the journey was undeniably rewarding.
