Comfit
Comfit
Comfit (/ˈkʌmfɪt/) is a type of confectionery consisting of a dried fruit, nut, seed, or spice coated with sugar candy, often through a process known as sugar panning.
Etymology
The term "comfit" is derived from the Old French word 'confit', which is the past participle of the verb 'confire', meaning "to preserve". This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'conficere', meaning "to prepare".
History
Comfits have been a popular form of confectionery since medieval times. They were often used as a form of medicine, with the sweet coating helping to make the medicinal ingredient more palatable.
Preparation
The preparation of comfits involves coating a small piece of food, often a seed or nut, in sugar syrup. This is then allowed to dry, creating a hard, sweet shell. This process is often repeated multiple times to build up a thick layer of sugar.
Types of Comfits
There are many different types of comfits, depending on the core ingredient used. Some of the most common types include:
- Almond comfits: These are made by coating almonds in sugar. They are a popular choice for wedding favours in some cultures.
- Caraway comfits: These are made with caraway seeds, which are believed to have medicinal properties.
- Aniseed comfits: These are made with aniseed, which is known for its distinctive flavour.
Related Terms
- Dragée: A type of comfit, often used as a decorative topping for cakes and desserts.
- Sugar panning: The process used to create comfits, involving the coating of a food item in sugar syrup.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Comfit
- Wikipedia's article - Comfit
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