As the Lunar New Year approaches, the Yuncui Crispy Candy Workshop in Tuanjie Village, Xieqiao Town, Yingshang County is bustling with activity. The traditional handmade crispy candy is being made in full swing, filling the air with a sweet aroma that adds a delightful sweetness to the upcoming Spring Festival.

Crispy candy is a distinctive sweet treat from the northern Anhui region and is one of the essential pastries for the Spring Festival in Yingshang. Shaped like long, round pieces, crispy candy is crispy, sweet, and does not stick to the teeth or leave crumbs. A bite leaves a lingering fragrance, evoking endless nostalgia. Each small piece of crispy candy encapsulates the memories of generations.

"The process of making crispy candy is complex, but many customers say it reminds them of the flavors from their childhood," said Guo Xingjian, the head of the Yuncui Crispy Candy Workshop. "Although the production process is physically demanding, seeing people recall beautiful memories from eating the candy gives meaning to my persistence in making it!"

Entering the workshop, the sweet aroma greets you. The craftsmen move swiftly, taking syrup from large pots to make candy. Each batch of candy goes through over a dozen steps from boiling to shaping into crispy candy. Every step—boiling, scooping, pulling, and cutting—is crucial; any mistake will affect the candy's texture.

"In recent years, we have consistently adhered to traditional handmade production, so customers can savor the flavors of their childhood," Guo Xingjian remarked.

"We use locally sourced red taros, which are a type of coarse grain sugar. Compared to other crispy candies, it has a lower sugar content, a rich flavor, and is crispy without sticking to the teeth or leaving crumbs," he explained. "With the New Year approaching, orders have increased, creating job opportunities for some local residents. We plan to expand production next year to provide employment for those staying at home in our village, so everyone can enjoy a sweet and happy life together."

Source: Anhuinews.com