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Chewy dragees are delightful treats that offer a unique combination of a slightly hard exterior and a soft, chewy interior. One of the most popular brands that produces these delectable goodies is Mentos. Sold in convenient roll packs, each containing around 14 mint discs, they come in a wide variety of flavors such as mint, mixed fruit, cola, bubble gum, and various fruit flavors like orange, strawberry, and lemon. With availability in over 130 countries worldwide, chewy dragees have become a beloved on-the-go snack, perfect for those who crave a burst of flavor at any time.
Key Facts
- Definition: Chewy dragees are small oblate spheroids that have a slightly hard exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
- Brand: Mentos is a well-known brand that produces chewy dragees. They are sold in rolls that typically contain 14 mint discs, although there are variations with fewer discs per roll.
- Flavors: Chewy dragees come in a wide range of flavors, including mint, mixed fruit, cola, bubble gum, and various fruit flavors like orange, strawberry, and lemon.
- Availability: Mentos chewy dragee rolls are available in over 130 countries worldwide.
- Packaging: Chewy dragees are typically sold in convenient on-the-go roll packs, making them easy to carry in your pocket, handbag, or car.
History and Origins
Dragees, a confectionery characterized by a sugar-coated nut or sweet center, trace their origins to ancient Rome, where nuts and seeds were coated in honey and used in celebratory events. The panning process, which involves building layers of chocolate or sugar onto a candy or nut center, was initially employed in the pharmaceutical industry in the 1100s to make medicines easier to swallow.
In the 1200s, sweet ingredients such as honey and sugar were incorporated into the panning process, giving rise to sugar panning and the creation of confectionery-coated pieces. Some of the earliest confectionery-coated pieces, believed to be dragees, emerged in France during this period.
Dragees gained popularity in France due to their perceived ability to increase fertility and became a staple at family events, weddings, and christenings. Their association with fertility and auspicious occasions contributed to their enduring presence in French culture.
Ingredients and Production
Chewy dragees are primarily composed of sugar, glucose syrup, fruit juices from concentrate, coconut oil, citric acid, starch, flavorings, maltodextrin, cocoa butter, thickeners, emulsifiers, and glazing agents.
The manufacturing process typically involves:
- Mixing the main ingredients, including sugar, glucose syrup, fruit juices, and flavorings.
- Heating the mixture to a specific temperature to achieve the desired consistency.
- Adding additional ingredients such as coconut oil, starch, and thickeners to enhance texture and stability.
- Shaping the mixture into small, round dragees.
- Coating the dragees with glazing agents, such as carnauba wax or beeswax, to give them a shiny appearance and prevent sticking.
- Packaging the finished chewy dragees for distribution and sale.
The specific manufacturing process may vary depending on the brand and product, but these steps generally outline the production of chewy dragees.
Popular Varieties and Flavors
Chewy dragees come in a wide range of flavors, offering options to suit different taste preferences. Some popular flavors include fruity flavors like apple, strawberry, orange, and lime. Other flavors may include mint, cinnamon, and menthol.
There are also different popular varieties of chewy dragees available in the market. Some examples of popular varieties include rainbow sourmix, grapes, and soda mix flavors. Each variety may have its unique combination of flavors and ingredients.
Usage and Consumption
Chewy dragees are often enjoyed as a sweet treat during various occasions and events, including weddings, birthdays, and holidays. They are commonly used as decorative elements on cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts for special celebrations. Chewy dragees can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack or included in candy buffets and party favors.
In addition to their decorative uses, chewy dragees can be incorporated into desserts and dishes in various ways. They can be used as toppings for ice cream, yogurt, or pudding to add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor. They can be mixed into cookie dough or brownie batter to create a delightful surprise in every bite. Chewy dragees can be added to trail mixes, granola bars, or homemade energy balls for a sweet and satisfying snack. They can also be used as decorative elements on cakes, cupcakes, or cookies to enhance their visual appeal.
Health and Dietary Considerations
Chewy dragees, such as Mentos Fruit Chewy Dragees, contain calories that should be considered when incorporating them into your diet. The exact calorie content may vary depending on the brand and flavor of the chewy dragees. It is recommended to check the packaging or consult the manufacturer’s website for specific nutritional information.
Chewy dragees may contain ingredients that could be potential allergens or may need to be avoided due to dietary restrictions. Common allergens to be aware of include coconut oil, which is fully hydrogenated, and may be present in some chewy dragees. Other potential allergens or dietary restrictions may vary depending on the specific brand and flavor of the chewy dragees.
It is important to carefully read the ingredient list on the packaging or consult the manufacturer’s website to identify any potential allergens or ingredients that may not align with specific dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Chewy dragees are small oblate spheroids with a slightly hard exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Mentos, a well-known brand, offers a variety of flavors in their chewy dragee rolls, making them a popular choice for candy lovers worldwide. With their convenient on-the-go packaging and availability in over 130 countries, chewy dragees have become a beloved treat that provides a burst of flavor whenever and wherever needed.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentos
https://www.mentos.com.au/products/mentos-fruit-roll
https://www.mynetdiary.com/food/calories-in-fruit-chewy-dragees-by-mentos-serving-29464220-0.html
FAQs
What are chewy dragees?
Chewy dragees are a type of candy that has a soft, chewy center and a hard, sugar-coated shell.
What are the different types of chewy dragees?
There are many different types of chewy dragees, including:
- Gummi bears
- Jelly beans
- Starbursts
- Skittles
- M&M’s
What are chewy dragees made of?
Chewy dragees are typically made with a combination of sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and flavorings.
How are chewy dragees made?
Chewy dragees are made by first creating a liquid mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin. This mixture is then poured into molds and allowed to cool and harden. Once the dragees have hardened, they are coated with a layer of sugar.
What are the nutritional benefits of chewy dragees?
Chewy dragees are not a good source of nutrients. They are high in sugar and calories, and they do not contain any vitamins or minerals.
What are the health risks of eating chewy dragees?
Eating too many chewy dragees can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems.