Manchu Snow Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional American Sugar on Snow dessert is transformed into a Manchu delicacy by incorporating Manchu-style flavors and techniques. The original dish typically uses maple syrup as the sauce, while the Manchu version features a tangy and aromatic sauce with spices and herbs commonly used in Manchu cuisine. The snowflakes are also made using a slightly different technique to achieve a lighter and fluffier texture, which is preferred in Manchu cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Sugar on Snow, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Snow or crushed ice for serving Snow or crushed ice for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 200 kcal / 836 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 52g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, lemon juice, grated ginger, ground cinnamon, ground star anise, and ground cardamom.
2. 2.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5. 5.
   Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to a serving container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
6. 6.
   To serve, place a layer of snow or crushed ice on a plate or bowl.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the chilled Manchu-style sauce over the snow or ice, allowing it to crystallize and form delicate snowflakes.
8. 8.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and sweet Manchu Snow Delight.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ginger — Grate the ginger finely to ensure it blends well with the sauce.
• Ground cinnamon — Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Ground star anise — If you can't find ground star anise, you can grind whole star anise in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
• Ground cardamom — Use freshly ground cardamom pods for the most aromatic flavor.
• Snow or crushed ice — If using snow, make sure it is clean and freshly fallen. If using crushed ice, ensure it is finely crushed for the best texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of ground Sichuan peppercorns to the sauce.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
• Serve the Manchu Snow Delight in chilled bowls or plates to keep the snowflakes from melting too quickly.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or star anise for an extra touch of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Manchu Snow Delight immediately after drizzling the sauce over the snow or crushed ice. The contrast between the cold snowflakes and the warm sauce is part of the experience. Enjoy it as a refreshing dessert on a hot summer day or as a unique treat to impress your guests.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, use a clear glass or bowl to showcase the beautiful snowflakes against the dark sauce. You can also garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.