Description
Turkish Delight, or Lokum, is a traditional confection with a soft, chewy texture. This recipe creates a classic rosewater-flavored version, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups water (separated)
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 tablespoon rosewater
- 1–2 drops red food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes without stirring.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup cornstarch and 1 1/2 cups water until smooth. Add cream of tartar and whisk again.
- Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sugar syrup, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens significantly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, for 45-60 minutes. The mixture should become very thick and pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater and food coloring (if using) until well combined.
- Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. Pour the Turkish Delight mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Once set, combine confectioners’ sugar and 1/2 cup cornstarch in a shallow dish.
- Invert the Turkish Delight onto a cutting board dusted with some of the sugar mixture. Cut into 1-inch squares using a sharp, oiled knife.
- Toss each square in the sugar mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For best results, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.
- Adjust the amount of rosewater to your taste.
- You can experiment with other flavorings like orange blossom water, lemon extract, or vanilla.
- For a nutty variation, add chopped pistachios or walnuts to the mixture before pouring it into the pan.
- Ensure the Turkish Delight is completely cool and set before cutting to avoid stickiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg