Jiadong peanut brittle is a handmade malt-sugar peanut candy commonly found on the old street of Jiadong, a Hakka township in Pingtung, made by slowly thickening malt sugar in a cast-iron pot, stirring in freshly stir-fried peanuts, then pouring the mixture onto a stone slab to press flat and cut into strips. Jiadong is one of Pingtung's major Hakka settlements, home to the largest concentration of century-old houses and historic buildings in Taiwan, and peanut brittle is one of the traditional handmade treats found there — sweet with malt first, then fragrant with peanut.
What is Jiadong Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle is made with locally grown peanuts as the main ingredient, combined with malt sugar and cane sugar, cooked low and slow in a large pot until the malt sugar reaches the right consistency. Pre-toasted peanuts are then added and quickly tossed in. While still hot, the mixture is poured onto an oiled stone slab, pressed flat to about one centimeter thick with a wooden rod or metal plate, then cut into strips once cooled. The finished product is golden in color with a slight sheen; versions with a higher malt sugar ratio melt in the mouth without sticking to the teeth — a key quality indicator.
Jiadong Township is an important peanut-growing area in Pingtung. The Jiadong Township Farmers' Association issues peanut-producing-area certification, with the main harvest season running from July to September; locally grown peanuts are used year-round. Multiple peanut brittle shops on the old street have operated for three or more generations, and some also sell peanut crisps and peanut puffed candy. These products are iconic Hakka-region souvenirs from Pingtung. The Jiadong Township Farmers' Association agricultural specialty direct-sales outlet also stocks them.
How to eat it like a local
Local Knowledge
Objective Endorsements
- The Jiadong Township Farmers' Association issues locally-grown peanut-area certification. Jiadong is a major peanut-producing area in Pingtung, and peanut brittle is a traditional locally processed food.
- Multiple peanut brittle shops on the old street have operated for three or more generations, representing a clear local handmade-food cultural heritage — not a tourism-driven newcomer.
Tips for Visiting
- Most peanut brittle shops in Jiadong Old Street are family-run. Some are closed on Mondays or certain holidays; call ahead to confirm hours before making the trip.
- Peanut brittle made right after the new harvest (July–September) has the richest aroma — the best time to buy for peak quality.
Sources: Jiadong Township Farmers' Association peanut-area certification; Jiadong Township Office tourism and cultural materials. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of place is Jiadong?
Jiadong is an important Hakka settlement in Pingtung; its old street preserves Taiwan's largest concentration of century-old houses and historic buildings, including the Yang Family Ancestral Hall and Xiao Family Old House.
How should Jiadong peanut brittle be stored?
Peanut brittle is moisture-sensitive; after purchase, keep it in a zip-lock bag or airtight container at room temperature to avoid it turning soft and sticky.
What other produce is Jiadong known for?
The Jiadong Township Farmers' Association is more widely known for its wax apple (lianwu) promotion; no reliable source could confirm specific peanut-area certification details for peanut brittle.