The Ultimate Guide to Battered Mars Bars: A Sweet Treat for the Family

Welcome, oh sweet-toothed parents and guardians of the snack-loving brigade! If you’re ready to introduce your family to a decadent treat that’s a bit out of the ordinary, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the world of the battered Mars bar – a confection that’s as quirky as it is delicious.

For the uninitiated, a battered Mars bar is a classic chocolate bar enrobed in a golden, crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. This Scottish delicacy has gained cult status and is sure to be a hit at home, at parties, or as a novel dessert after your Sunday roast. So, let’s whisk away into the crispy and gooey universe of this unique treat.

What Exactly is a Battered Mars Bar?

First things first: let’s unwrap the mystery of what a battered Mars bar entails. It starts with a regular Mars bar — that chewy blend of nougat, soft caramel, and milk chocolate that we all know and love. But then, it takes a twist. The bar is dipped into a sweet batter mix, the same kind you might use for pancakes or waffles, and then it’s gently lowered into hot oil and fried until it’s transformed into a warm, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth delight. Sounds tempting, right?

Why Try a Battered Mars Bar?

For the adventurous palate and those who enjoy a delightful contradiction, a battered Mars bar offers a symphony of textures and flavours. Contrary to what one might expect, the combination of the crunchy outer layer and the melted, gooey interior creates a balanced treat that’s not too sweet and has a satisfying depth of flavour.

How to Make Battered Mars Bars at Home

Making battered Mars bars at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a fantastic activity to involve the kids in (with supervision, of course, when it comes to the frying part).

• Ingredients:
• Mars bars (1 per person is usually sufficient)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Equipment:
• Deep fryer or a deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Tongs or a slotted spoon
• Paper towels for draining

Now, let’s talk process:

1. Chill your Mars bars in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps them hold their shape during frying.
2. Prepare your batter by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and egg until smooth. Let it sit for a few minutes while you heat your oil.
3. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the temperature by dropping a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and browns in about a minute, you’re good to go.
4. Dip a chilled Mars bar into the batter, ensuring it’s completely coated.
5. Carefully place the battered bar into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd your frying space; cook one or two at a time depending on the size of your fryer or pan.
6. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown, then carefully remove and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Let them cool slightly before serving — the inside will be hot!

Voilà! You’ve just whipped up a batch of delicious battered Mars bars. Serve them as is, or get creative with sauces like caramel or chocolate for dipping. But no matter how you choose to serve them, one thing is certain – your little ones (and the big ones too) are in for a treat that’s equal parts unexpected and absolutely delightful.

Not only are battered Mars bars a delicious snack, they also spark conversations around the kitchen table about culinary exploration and the joy of trying new things. Encourage your kids to think about different textures and tastes, and maybe even inspire them to come up with their very own unique battered treats!

As we wrap up this intro to our guide on battered Mars bars, remember that cooking with family is about the journey, not just the yummy destination. So have fun, make memories, and indulge in the sweet world of battered treats together. Soon, you’ll discover…

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5 Things Parents Should Know Before Preparing Battered Mars Bars

Before we embark on the indulgent path of making battered Mars bars, there are a few essential tips that parents should keep in mind. These will ensure a delightful cooking experience and, of course, the utmost safety and enjoyment when preparing this unique treat.

1. Safety First: Hot Oil Handling

When working with hot oil, safety is of the utmost importance. Always supervise children closely if they are assisting you in the kitchen, especially during the frying process. Keep a safe distance from the stove to prevent splatters and heat exposure. Additionally, use appropriate tools such as tongs or a slotted spoon to avoid direct contact with the hot oil when placing in or removing the bars.

2. Choosing the Right Equipment

Use a deep fryer if you have one, as it comes with temperature control and safety features specifically designed for frying. If using a saucepan, choose one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution and stability. A candy thermometer can be invaluable for maintaining the correct oil temperature, helping to achieve that golden crispy perfection without burning.

3. The Importance of Batter Consistency

The batter should be of the right consistency — not too thick and not too thin. If it’s too thick, it may not cook through properly, and if too thin, it may not coat the Mars bars adequately. Aim for a smooth, lump-free batter that drips slowly off the spoon. This ensures a lovely, even coat around your chocolate bar.

4. Cooling Down is Crucial

After frying, let your battered Mars bars cool down a bit before serving. Not only will this prevent burnt tongues, but it also gives the molten chocolate inside some much-needed time to settle. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping your treat as light as possible.

5. Get Creative with Serving

While a plain battered Mars bar is a fabulous treat on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with your presentation and additions. Sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top, serve with whipped cream, or offer a selection of dipping sauces. This not only makes the experience more fun but also encourages the young ones to think adventurously about food.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the fun world of battered Mars bars is a delightful way to spend time with the family while indulging in a wee bit of Scottish tradition. With the right preparation and these top tips, you’re just about ready to create deeply satisfying, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside treats that’ll have everyone smiling.

Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend kitchen adventure, remember the golden rule of cooking with kids — it’s all about making those tasty memories together. Soon, your little chefs might even come up with innovative ideas to batter and fry — who knows, maybe battered Snickers bars or even a deep-fried Twix could be your family’s next favorite treat!

So, tie on those aprons, get that oil bubbling, and watch as those humble Mars bars transform into a warm, lip-smacking indulgence. The world of battered treats awaits, and it’s oh-so-sweet! Happy frying!

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