Taojiao is an amber-colored resin secreted by peach trees. In summer, people often drink Taojiao and lotus seed white fungus soup. However, some Taojiao is black. Why does Taojiao turn black? Can black Taojiao still be consumed?
What causes Taojiao to turn black?
Ancient people described Taojiao as "tears of peach blossoms". Taojiao, also known as peach oil or peach jelly, is a solid substance that is amber in color when dried. The black color of Taojiao may be due to oxidation or damage by insects. During the secretion process, Taojiao may contain black impurities, and if there are many impurities, Taojiao may also be black.
Can black Taojiao be consumed?
Yes, it can be consumed.
Taojiao is resin secreted by the peach tree bark, and it can be light yellow, dark yellow, amber, or transparent in color. The black color of Taojiao is closely related to its growth environment. Pure natural Taojiao, after it emerges from the bark, undergoes sedimentation over time, and its color gradually deepens. However, this does not significantly affect its taste and nutritional value, so it can still be consumed.
How to deal with black Taojiao?
Soaking in water
1. Rinse the Taojiao with clean water and soak it in a clean bowl for more than 12 hours.
2. After soaking, stir the Taojiao in the water clockwise with chopsticks to remove the black impurities.
3. Discard the water with impurities and debris, and pour clean water into the bowl. Use your hands to remove stubborn impurities from the Taojiao.
Does old Taojiao turn black?
Yes, it turns black.
Taojiao will turn black if it stays on the peach tree for too long, not to mention when it is picked. After long-term storage, old Taojiao will darken due to oxidation. The black color is a normal phenomenon, and as long as there are no quality issues, it can still be consumed. Before consumption, it is recommended to soak it in clean water for more than 10 hours.
Is black Taojiao better or yellow Taojiao better?
Yellow Taojiao is better.
Taojiao has irregular block or teardrop shapes, varying in size. The surface is light yellow or yellow-brown, and the texture is firm. Taojiao with a white or amber color, clean transparency, and no impurities is preferred. Therefore, yellow Taojiao is better.
