Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- 8x8 inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line an 8x8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add lemon juice and cinnamon to the sugar mixture and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil and insert a candy thermometer. Cook until the temperature reaches 240°F (115°C), stirring occasionally.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 cup of water until smooth.
7. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the sugar mixture, stirring constantly.
8. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
9. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
11. Once the lokum is firm, remove it from the baking dish and cut it into small squares.
12. Dust the squares with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Boil the sugar mixture until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
Serving size:
- This recipe makes about 36 small squares.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Sugar: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any other flavorings instead of cinnamon and vanilla extract.
Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Dust the squares with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
- Store the lokum in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- The lokum can be served cold or at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the squares on a platter and dust with powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
- You can garnish the squares with chopped nuts or dried fruits.
Pairings:
- Serve the lokum with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- This recipe does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water.
- If the mixture is too thin, add a little more cornstarch.
Food safety advice:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
Food history:
- Lokum, also known as Turkish delight, is a sweet treat that originated in Turkey in the 1700s.
Flavor profiles:
- This recipe has a sweet and spicy flavor with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lokum as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Region: Turkish