Turkish delight
This classic Turkish treat is perfect for sharing with friends and family or gifting during special occasions. This sweet, aromatic confection hails from Turkey, known locally as Lokum, dates back centuries and is cherished for its soft, chewy texture and fragrant flavour.
Ingredients
- 400g granulated sugar
- 70g cornflour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 300ml water
- 2 tablespoons rose water
- 1-2 drops of red food colouring (optional)
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Method
- Mix the cornflour, cream of tartar, and 200ml water in a non-stick saucepan until smooth.
- Add the sugar and gently dissolve over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce to a simmer without stirring for about 15 minutes or until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (115°C on a sugar thermometer).
- Remove from the heat, and stir in the rose water and optional food colouring.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow, cornflour-dusted tray and leave to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Once set, dust a surface with icing sugar, turn out the Turkish Delight, and cut it into cubes. Dust all sides of the cubes with more icing sugar to prevent sticking.
Storage: Turkish Delight can be kept in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper and dusted with icing sugar, for up to 2 weeks.
Nutritionals
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
Cooking times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Setting Time: At least 4 hours or overnight