Authentic Turkish Delight Sweet (Printable Version)
Soft, chewy Turkish delight with rose flavor, made using sugar syrup and cornstarch for a delightful treat.
# What You'll Need:
→ Lokum Base
01 -
2 cups white sugar (scant)
02 -
3/4 cup water (for syrup)
03 -
1/4 teaspoon citric acid
04 -
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon cornstarch
05 -
2 cups plus 5 teaspoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
06 -
1 1/2 teaspoons rosewater
07 -
10 drops red food coloring
→ For Cutting
08 -
1/4 cup cornstarch
→ For Dredging
09 -
2/3 cup cornstarch
10 -
1/3 cup powdered sugar
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Combine sugar, citric acid, and 3/4 cup water in a heavy-bottomed pan. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
02 -
Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to simmer. Using a candy thermometer, cook syrup until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage), approximately 15-30 minutes.
03 -
In a bowl or jar, vigorously whisk 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 cups plus 5 teaspoons water until smooth and lump-free.
04 -
Remove syrup from heat and gradually whisk in cornstarch slurry to prevent lumps.
05 -
Return pan to medium-low heat and whisk continuously until mixture thickens to a gel-like consistency.
06 -
Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Stir mixture every 6-7 minutes to avoid sticking. Continue simmering for 1 to 2 hours until medium-dark amber and thick but not overly gloopy, stirring every 2 minutes near the end.
07 -
Lightly oil a container approximately 5 x 7 inches or line with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
08 -
Remove pan from heat, stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons rosewater and 10 drops red food coloring, then pour mixture into prepared mold.
09 -
Allow mixture to set at room temperature for at least 5 hours or up to a full day in warm or humid conditions.
10 -
Sprinkle 1/4 cup cornstarch over set Lokum. Cut a strip from the edge, remove slab, dust again with cornstarch, then cut into approximately 40 one-inch cubes.
11 -
Toss cubes in a mixture of 2/3 cup cornstarch and 1/3 cup powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
12 -
Serve alongside Turkish coffee and water, or pair between plain biscuits such as Biscoff for an authentic experience.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Use a candy thermometer to accurately reach the hard ball stage; temperature precision is key for proper texture.