MEMORIES:
Mrs_Pookie remembers...These are pretty tasteless (I could never distinguish flavors from each other), but so pretty! More »
Posted on 06/17/08
Pure, unadulterated sugar. Mmm, hmm! Idolized by kids and sweet-toothed adults alike, sugar is the pot at the end of the rainbow and rock candy just might be the gems and crystals found inside. As tasty as it is, rock candy is just as (if not more) beautiful. It’s no wonder rock candy has even been idolized in song and rhyme. Big Rock Candy Mountain, an homage to a hobo's idea of paradise, is exactly the kind of sweet place to escape everyday life, and maybe that has a bit to do with rock candy, itself.
It is said that rock candy was discovered in the 18th century and was recognized for its preservative and therapeutic qualities, though it is very likely that it came way before then. In fact, many believe that Shakespeare made a reference to the crystallized candy in Henry IV, written in 1596, as a treat to be given to long-winded talkers, ahem, to soothe their throats. Even earlier than that, Persian poet, Jalal-ad-Din Rumi appears to have mentioned the sweet several times in his works written during the 1200s.
Rock candy is actually fairly simple to make, just so long as you mind the hot temperatures and take care while doing it. While there are variations available, the simplest way to do it is to mix sugar into boiling water, along with any other flavorings and colors wanted, dip a sugar coated string in and allow it to cool and crystallize for a few days. Once finished, break the pieces off and the candy is ready to enjoy! Rock candy can be found in pieces or even on the ends of sticks as a sucker of sorts, and can be eaten on its own or used to sweeten up coffees and teas. No matter how you enjoy your rock candy, just remember: don’t forget to brush your teeth!
