Dingding Sugar (Maltose Candy)

Brief Introduction

Dingding Sugar, also known as Maltose Candy or Bang Bang Tang, is a traditional sweet treat popular in various regions of China, especially in Yunnan, Sichuan, and other provinces. It is made from a mixture of wheat and glutinous rice that undergoes fermentation and then is boiled down to create a sweet, sticky, and slightly chewy candy. The name "Dingding" often refers to the sound made by vendors striking a small hammer against a metal tool to break off pieces of the candy for customers.
Dingding Sugar (Maltose Candy)

Cuisine

Chinese Folk Snack: Dingding Sugar belongs to the category of traditional Chinese snacks, which are often enjoyed as a sweet treat or a small bite between meals.

Taste

Sweet & Slightly Sticky: Dingding Sugar has a distinctive sweet flavor and a slightly sticky texture that makes it enjoyable to chew.
Aromatic & Refreshing: The candy also has a faint aroma from the fermentation process, adding to its overall appeal.

Specialties

Traditional Craftsmanship: Dingding Sugar is made through a complex process involving fermentation, boiling, and pulling, which requires skill and patience.
Unique Selling Method: Vendors often sell Dingding Sugar by striking a small hammer against a metal tool to break off pieces, creating a distinctive sound that attracts customers.
Versatile Uses: In addition to being eaten directly, Dingding Sugar can also be used as an ingredient in various desserts and traditional Chinese medicines.

Ingredients

Wheat & Glutinous Rice: These are the main ingredients used to make Dingding Sugar, providing the candy with its characteristic texture and flavor.
Water & Malt Powder: Water is used during the boiling process, while malt powder helps with the fermentation process.
Optional Flavorings: Sometimes, additional flavorings like sesame seeds, ginger, or even a hint of salt are added to enhance the taste.

Authentic Locations

Yunnan Province: Dingding Sugar is particularly famous in Yunnan, where it is made with traditional craftsmanship and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The city of Kunming and surrounding areas are known for their high-quality Dingding Sugar.
Other Regions: Sichuan, Hunan, and other provinces in China also have their own versions of Dingding Sugar, each with its unique flavor and texture.

Glossary

Chinese	English
叮叮糖	Dingding Sugar
麦芽糖	Maltose Candy
饴糖	Soft Brown Sugar
小麦	Wheat
糯米	Glutinous Rice
发酵	Fermentation
熬煮	Boiling
拉制	Pulling (candy making)
传统小吃	Traditional Snack
民间工艺	Folk Craftsmanship