Cinnamon Flavored New Karinto

Cinnamon Scented New Karinto, also known as Honey Deep-Fried Cinnamon Snacks, is a globally popular and trendy dish that has won the hearts of millions. These delectable snacks are not only easy and quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Their charming appearance and rich, caramelized syrup coating make them an irresistible treat. Interestingly, these delightful snacks have a history that traces back to Tokyo colleges during the early 1900s. They were beloved by students then and continue to be a sought-after snack, especially during the autumn season when they grace food stalls and school festivals.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Serving Size: 2 

INGREDIENTS:

• 100 grams of flour
• 60 grams of sugar
• 1½ teaspoons of salt
• ½ teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 tablespoon of water
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 30 grams of sliced almonds

For the Sugar Coating:

• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• ½ teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon of water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 60 grams of sugar, 1½ teaspoons of salt, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of water and 1 egg until thoroughly combined.
3. Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a cohesive dough. Allow the dough to rest for thirty minutes, covering it with cling film.
4. After the resting period, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1-2 mm.
5. Cut the dough into small pieces, approximately 5 cm in size, resembling soba noodles.
6. In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to approximately 180°C (356°F).
7. Carefully deep-fry the dough pieces until they change color and stop sizzling. This should take a few minutes.
8. Once fried, remove the pieces from the oil and drain any excess oil thoroughly.
9. In a separate saucepan, combine 1 tablespoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of water. Heat the mixture until the sugar melts and becomes translucent.
10. Add the deep-fried dough pieces to the sugar mixture and remove from heat. Gently shake the pan to ensure the sticks are evenly coated with the sugar syrup.
11. Transfer the coated sticks to a plate, spreading them out to cool. As the sugar coating hardens, the texture of the sticks will become powdery.

TIPS FOR MAKING CINNAMON SCENTED NEW KARINTO:

Let’s explore some helpful tips to ensure your honey deep-fried cinnamon snacks turn out perfectly:

• Prepare the Dough in Advance: Allow the dough to rest for at least thirty minutes before rolling it out. This resting period helps the dough achieve the right texture for frying.
• Slice Uniformly: When cutting the dough into pieces, aim for consistency. Uniformly sized pieces will ensure even frying, resulting in a uniform and delightful snack.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while deep-frying. The oil should be around 180°C (356°F). Use a thermometer if needed to maintain the correct frying temperature.
• Handle the Sugar Coating with Care: When making the sugar coating, be cautious as it can become extremely hot. Handle it carefully and avoid direct contact with your skin.

Cinnamon Scented New Karinto, or Honey Deep-Fried Cinnamon Snacks, is a delightful treat that offers a unique combination of flavors and textures. With its rich history and enduring popularity, these snacks are a testament to the joy of indulging in simple yet satisfying culinary creations. Whether enjoyed as a snack or shared during festive occasions, Cinnamon Scented New Karinto is sure to delight taste buds and evoke fond memories of Tokyo’s college days.