Sesame snap candy
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Sesame snap candy, also known as sesame brittle or 'zhi ma tang' in Chinese, is a traditional sweet treat made primarily from toasted sesame seeds bound together by a caramelized sugar or maltose syrup. It is a popular confection found throughout East Asia, particularly in China, and is often enjoyed as a snack or during festive occasions like the Lunar New Year.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This candy is high in carbohydrates from the sugar and provides a good source of plant-based protein and healthy fats from the sesame seeds. A typical 30-gram serving contains roughly 150-170 calories, offering minerals like calcium and iron.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, sesame snap candy is a classic example of a 'nostalgic' or 'memory' food for many, often evoking childhood memories. Nutritionally, sesame seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of calcium, making this sweet treat a surprisingly mineral-rich option compared to other candies.