The fall is a time in the United States when cultures collide. While many older Latinos carry over their homeland traditions by celebrating what is recognized as Day of the Dead, their children have adapted to more traditional American customs by celebrating Halloween.
Despite these cultural differences, both traditions practice the sharing of candies. For Latino parents, the preferred choice is to share more natural-based treats made with honey and other ingredients such as fruits and seeds, reminiscent of the candies they enjoyed back home. Just in time for fall, the National Honey Board has developed delectable honey-based candies rooted from all over Latin America that both parents and their children can enjoy together as they celebrate Halloween and the Day of the Dead.
Traditional Day of the Dead celebrations consist of family members paying homage to deceased ancestors by placing offerings at their altar. Original customs stem from indigenous people in Mexico. Later, when the Spanish arrived, ancient Day of the Dead beliefs were combined with Catholic holidays: All Saints and All Souls day. Although Halloween customs differ, some remain similar. The love for candy is celebrated and embraced by both holidays. That's why the candy recipes created by the National Honey Board are fit for kids celebrating Halloween while their parents enjoy the same treats from their childhood when honoring the Day of the Dead.
"The National Honey Board wants to share candy recipes with the Latino flavor and culture in mind," says Catherine Barry, Director of Marketing for The National Honey Board. "We made some very popular bite-size candies such as turron, palanquetas and cocadas among others, which all have honey as the key ingredient."
The candies developed by the National Honey Board originate from various parts of Mexico, as well as from Central and Latin American countries. The Palanquetas is derived from the mixed ethnic and heavily indigenized populated state of Veracruz. Jamoncillos come out of Zacatecas, a state known for its agriculture and tourism. Other candy recipes created by the National Honey Board are rooted from countries like Peru, Guatemala and Cuba.
Honey is a commonly used ingredient in Latin America. It gives candies an irresistible taste, providing the natural ingredient that children enjoy. Indulging in these delicious honey-based candies will give kids a taste of their culture, while celebrating the American holiday of Halloween, all with the simple touch of honey!
Take a bite out of Latin America during Halloween with these tasty candy recipes with honey:
