Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup whole almonds, toasted and chopped
- Food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue to heat until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
3. While the sugar mixture is heating, mix together the cornstarch, powdered sugar, almond flour, and ground cardamom in a separate bowl.
4. Once the sugar mixture has reached 240°F (115°C), remove it from the heat and stir in the dry ingredients until fully combined.
5. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and stir until the desired color is achieved.
6. Pour the mixture into an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the top of the mixture and press them down lightly with a spatula.
8. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
9. Once set, remove the Turkish delight from the baking dish and cut into small squares.
10. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Temperature:
240°F (115°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 36 small squares
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 80
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 5mg
Sugar: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour can be substituted with any other nut flour, such as hazelnut or pistachio flour.
- Ground cardamom can be substituted with ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Variations:
- Add chopped pistachios or hazelnuts instead of almonds for a different flavor.
- Use rose water instead of water for a floral twist.
- Add a few drops of lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the mixture will enhance their flavor.
- Dust the finished Turkish delight with additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
Store the Turkish delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Turkish delight can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Do not heat in the microwave or oven as it will melt.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the Turkish delight on a platter and sprinkle with additional chopped nuts or powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with edible rose petals or gold leaf for a luxurious touch.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea for an authentic experience.
Suggested side dishes:
Turkish delight is typically served as a dessert on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too sticky, add more cornstarch and powdered sugar.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when handling the hot sugar mixture as it can cause burns.
Food history:
Turkish delight, also known as lokum, is a traditional sweet treat that originated in Turkey in the 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
The combination of cardamom and almond creates a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of spice.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Turkish delight on a decorative platter with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.
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Region: Turkish