Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Orange food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- 8x8 inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line the baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert the candy thermometer and continue boiling until the temperature reaches 240°F (soft ball stage).
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cream of tartar.
5. Slowly pour the sugar mixture into the cornstarch mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes glossy (about 10-15 minutes).
7. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water and food coloring (if using).
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
10. Once set, remove the Turkish delight from the baking dish and cut into small squares.
11. Toss the squares in powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Soft ball stage (240°F)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 36 pieces
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 70
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Sugar: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Orange blossom water can be substituted with rose water or vanilla extract.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with potato starch or arrowroot powder.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture before pouring into the baking dish.
- Use different food coloring to create a variety of colors.
- Dip the Turkish delight in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a pastry brush dipped in water to prevent the mixture from sticking to the sides of the saucepan.
- If the mixture becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to thin it out.
- Dust the knife with powdered sugar before cutting the Turkish delight to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
Store the Turkish delight in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Turkish delight does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the Turkish delight on a platter and sprinkle with edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Edible flowers, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar.
Pairings:
Turkish tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
None.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture becomes grainy, it may be due to undissolved sugar. Make sure to stir the sugar and water mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved before boiling.
- If the mixture is too sticky, it may not have cooked long enough. Return the mixture to the heat and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a clean candy thermometer and avoid touching the mixture with your hands to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Turkish delight, also known as lokum, is a sweet treat that originated in Turkey in the late 1700s. It is traditionally made with sugar, water, and cornstarch, and flavored with rose water or other natural extracts.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, floral, and slightly chewy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Turkish delight on a platter with Turkish tea or coffee for a traditional Turkish treat.
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Region: Turkish