Alegría (Mexican candy) facts for kids
Alegrías
|
|
| Type | Candy |
|---|---|
| Course | Snack |
| Place of origin | Mexico |
| Ingredients generally used | Seeds of amaranth and honey or sugar |
Alegría is a delicious Mexican candy. It is made from tiny seeds called amaranth mixed with honey or sugar. This sweet treat is mostly made in the town of Santiago Tulyehualco. This town is in the Xochimilco area of Mexico City. People have called this candy "alegría" since the 1500s. In September 2016, the Alegría from Tulyehualco was officially named an important part of Mexico City's culture. This means it is a special tradition that should be protected.
The Story of Amaranth
Amaranth is a plant that grew naturally in Mexico. A very long time ago, before Europeans came to Mexico, people used amaranth for many things. It was a big part of their food. They also used it like money! People even made figures of amaranth and honey to offer to their gods.
When Hernán Cortés arrived, he wanted to stop these religious practices. So, he banned people from growing amaranth. If someone kept growing it, they could be put to death as punishment. Because of this, the plant was used less and less for a while.
How Alegrías Are Made
Today, Alegrías are the most popular way to eat amaranth. To make these sweets, the amaranth seeds are puffed up. This is done by heating them in a hot pan without any oil. The seeds pop open in just a few seconds!
Once they are puffed, the seeds are mixed with honey or sugar syrup. Sometimes, other tasty things are added too. These can be roasted seeds like peanuts or pumpkin seeds. Chopped dried fruits are also a popular addition. The mixture is then shaped into different forms. Finally, the Alegrías are packaged and ready to be sold and enjoyed!
See also
In Spanish: Alegría (dulce) para niños
