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Authentic Turkish Delight

Authentic Turkish Delight
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Authentic Turkish Delight is a timeless confection featuring a soft, chewy texture and delicate flavors of rose, lemon, and nuts. This traditional sweet treat blends simple pantry ingredients into a fragrant, jelly-like candy that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or sharing with loved ones. Experience the rich cultural heritage and customizable flavors that make this recipe a beloved classic around the world.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water (divided)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon rosewater or citrus extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts)

For Dusting

  • Powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture (equal parts, for dusting and coating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Mold: Lightly grease and dust an 8×8 inch pan with a mixture of powdered sugar and cornstarch to prevent sticking and help set the shape of the Turkish Delight.
  2. Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Bring to a gentle boil and maintain until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (around 240°F or 115°C) on a candy thermometer.
  3. Mix the Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate pot, combine cornstarch with the remaining 1/2 cup cold water to form a smooth slurry. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a white, jelly-like paste without lumps.
  4. Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes golden and very thick.
  5. Add Flavorings and Nuts: Remove from heat and stir in rosewater or your chosen flavor extract. Fold in chopped nuts if desired to add texture and bursts of flavor.
  6. Set and Cool: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for several hours or preferably overnight until firm and set.
  7. Cut and Coat: Dust a clean surface with the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture. Invert the set block onto this surface, cut into small squares or diamond shapes, and toss each piece thoroughly in the dusting mixture to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Monitor temperature carefully using a candy thermometer to reach the correct sugar temperature for ideal texture.
  • Patience is key: stir consistently and cook slowly to prevent burning or uneven setting.
  • Use fresh rosewater or high-quality extracts to enhance authentic flavors.
  • Be generous with the powdered sugar and cornstarch dusting to keep pieces from sticking together.
  • Store Turkish Delight in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain chewiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish Delight, Lokum, rosewater candy, gluten free dessert, chewy candy, traditional Turkish sweet, homemade Turkish delight

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/authentic-turkish-delight/