tech
How Kohakutou Candy Hit the Sweet Spot
Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

TL;DR
- Kohakutou are crystallised candies known for their gem-like appearance and contrasting textures: a crunchy shell and a soft jelly center.
- They have become popular on social media, particularly in ASMR content, and are used as edible decorations for desserts.
- Culinary artists and brands in fashion and beauty have created luxury versions of kohakutou, inspired by traditional recipes.
- The candy is made by boiling agar-agar and sugar, then shaping and drying the mixture to form a sugary crust.
- Kohakutou are stable at room temperature, unlike fresh jelly, and can be made in various flavors and colors.