Apple Cider Vinegar Taffy

Vinegar taffy?

Oh, yes.  Growing up, my family would start making candies to give as Christmas gifts right after Thanksgiving. 

This is a variation on an old family favorite recipe. It may sound a little odd, but it’s actually delightful, if not slightly addictive.  Vinegar’s sharp sour contrasts to sugar’s sweetness and creates a unique flavor sensation. Pulling taffy takes some time and is best done in joyous company, with your hair tied back.

Servings: 20 pieces Prep Time: 20-30 minutes Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups organic white sugar

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 Tbsp butter plus extra for pulling

Instructions

Cook the taffy

1. Don't cook the mother! Avoid using too much of the "mother" from the cider. That's the residue, particles at the bottom of the jar. Either strain it out or allow it to settle and gently pour off the portion of cider you need. That will give you a clearer taffy.

2. In a heavy sauce pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once butter is melted add in sugar and vinegar and stir until dissolved. Boil mixture, stirring gently until it reaches 256° F on a candy thermometer. The candy will become brittle when tested under cold water.

Pull the taffy

1. Pour the mixture onto a buttered marble slab or white china tray. Using a spatula work the taffy until cool enough to be handled with buttered hands. Be careful, taffy is hot! Twist and pull the taffy until it has a whitish/creamy gloss. Twist and shape into narrow ropes about width of you thumb. Using a sharp knife cut into small pieces and then wrap in waxed paper.

Recipe Notes

Healing highlights:  The sour flavor enters the Liver and Gallbladder, stimulating bile flow and powerfully moves Qi. The sweet flavor goes to the Earth element and the Stomach and Spleen.  In small amounts sugar helps to circulate the blood.  However, often sugar is in excess in the American diet causing problems ranging from diabetes to cavities and aggravating muscle aches and pains. Butter, of course, provides fat that satiates.

This is a treat...use with caution.