What is angel hair and what is it made of?
Angel hair is a homemade sweet made from the citron squash, also known as 'candied pumpkin'. This variety is characterised by its fibrous flesh and slightly sweet taste, perfect for making a delicious preserve. Although some people try to look for other alternatives and wonder if it can be made with other pumpkins, the truth is that 'cidra' is irreplaceable for its unique texture, which gives rise to those golden strands that look like silk threads.
A classic of Christmas gastronomy
In Spain, it has a special place in Spanish Christmas gastronomy. It is a key element in many Christmas recipes, from empanadillas and puff pastries to Dominican pies and cakes. But beyond being a simple filling, cabello de ángel is also a link to the traditions of yesteryear, when families would gather around the kitchen to prepare homemade Christmas treats.
How to make homemade angel hair
Preparing it may seem like a laborious task, but it is surprisingly simple. Here is a step-by-step recipe so you can include this sweet in your repertoire of traditional Christmas desserts.
Ingredients:
- 1 pumpkin citron (approx. 2 kg).
- 1 kg sugar.
- 1 lemon (juice and peel).
- 1 cinnamon stick.
How to make angel hair :
1. Preparation of the pumpkin : Wash the citron squash well and cut it into large chunks. It is not necessary to peel it, as the skin will come off easily after cooking.
2. Initial cooking : Place the pieces in a large pot, cover with water and boil for about 40-50 minutes or until the flesh is soft.
3. Separation of the pulp : Drain the pieces and, when they are warm, remove the seeds and the skin. Crumble the pulp with your hands or a fork to form the characteristic strands of angel hair.
4. Cooking the sweet: In a saucepan, mix the pumpkin pulp with the sugar, lemon juice, lemon peel and cinnamon stick. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the angel hair turns golden brown and has a slightly sticky texture. This process can take between 30 and 40 minutes.
5. Packaging : Once ready, remove the lemon peel and cinnamon and store the angel hair in sterilised glass jars. This will allow you to enjoy it for weeks.
Desserts with angel hair
Not only is it delicious on its own, but it is also a perfect partner for creating a wide variety of desserts. Among the most popular options to include in your homemade Christmas sweets, the following stand out:
· Empanadillas de cabello de ángel : Perfect for mid-afternoon coffee.
· Stuffed puff pastry : An elegant and simple option.
· Cakes and sponge cakes : Adding angel hair to the dough or using it as a filling gives a special touch to these preparations.
· Cocas and ensaimadas : Traditional delicacies that shine with this sweet as the protagonist.
Buy it or make it at home
Although it is possible to buy angel hair in supermarkets or specialised shops, nothing compares to the taste and satisfaction of being able to make it at home. By making this sweet from scratch, you can not only control the quality of the ingredients, but also immerse yourself in the experience of reliving a magical Christmas tradition.
The charm of sweets made with this product
Sweets with angel hair are a reflection of our gastronomic history and a good way to connect with our roots.
Incorporating, for example, almond cordials into your Christmas menu is a way of adding a personal and authentic touch to your celebrations, delighting family and friends with their flavour.
Other sweets you can't miss are the typical angel hair cakes and the classic and famous ensaimada de Mallorca.
Christmas is the perfect time to explore the charm of traditional cuisine and pay homage to recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Preparing this ingredient will not only allow you to enjoy a homemade sweet full of flavour, but will also give you the opportunity to experience the essence of grandma's sweet recipes.
This year, sweeten your festive season with this classic and discover why it continues to be a must-have in Christmas gastronomy.
