Classic Turkish Delight (Lokum)
Indulge in the sweet, chewy goodness of Classic Turkish Delight, a cherished confectionary treat from Turkey, known as Lokum. This recipe guides you through creating a variety of flavors and delicate textures that melt in your mouth, making a perfect gift or after-dinner delight.
8
Servings
712.5
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
granulated sugar
4 cups (none)
water
4.5 cups (divided; 1.5 cups for syrup, 1 cup for cornflour mix, 2 cups to boil)
lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
cornflour
1 cup (sifted)
cream of tartar
1 teaspoon (none)
rose water
1 tablespoon (may be doubled to taste)
red food coloring
to preference (add few drops)
toasted almonds
1/2 cup (chopped)
confectioners' sugar
3/4 cup (sifted)
cornflour
1/4 cup (sifted for coating)
Instructions
1
In a large, thick-based pan, combine 4 cups of granulated sugar, 1.5 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
2
Stir over low heat until the sugar completely dissolves, carefully brushing off any sugar crystals that form on the sides with a bristle brush dipped in cold water.
3
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil until it reaches the soft ball stage at 115°C (240°F). Set aside once achieved.
4
In another large, thick-based pan, stir together 1 cup of cornflour and 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar with 1 cup of cold water until smooth.
5
Bring the remaining 2 cups of water to a boil and gradually incorporate them into the cornflour mixture. Place over low heat.
6
Constantly stir this mixture until it becomes thick and bubbles appear. Use a balloon whisk to eliminate lumps.
7
Gradually pour the hot syrup from the first mixture into the cornflour mixture, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth blend.
8
Bring it to a gentle boil and cook for about 75 minutes until the colour changes to a pale golden hue, stirring occasionally.
9
Add 1 tablespoon (or more, to taste) of rose water and a few drops of red food coloring to achieve a light pink tint.
10
Fold in the 1/2 cup of chopped toasted almonds, if desired, and remove from the heat.
11
Pour the mixture into an oiled 23 cm (9-inch) square cake tin and allow it to rest for at least 12 hours to set properly.
12
In a flat dish, combine 3/4 cup of confectioners' sugar with 1/4 cup of cornflour.
13
Use an oiled knife to cut the set Turkish Delight into squares, then toss each piece in the sugar and cornflour mixture.
14
Store the pieces in a sealed container, layering them with the remaining sugar mixture to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Information
3.13g
Fat
181.25g
Carbs
1.88g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lokum?
Lokum is the traditional name for Turkish Delight, a beloved sweet and chewy confectionary treat originating from Turkey.
What are the main ingredients for Turkish Delight?
The primary ingredients include granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, cornflour, cream of tartar, and flavorings like rose water.
How long does it take to cook Turkish Delight?
Once the mixtures are combined, it needs to be cooked over a gentle boil for approximately 75 minutes.
What temperature should the sugar syrup reach?
The sugar syrup should reach the soft ball stage, which is 115"C (240"F).
How do I prevent sugar crystals from forming during the syrup stage?
Carefully brush off any sugar crystals that form on the sides of the pan with a bristle brush dipped in cold water.
What is the purpose of cream of tartar in this recipe?
Cream of tartar helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and contributes to the chewy texture of the candy.
Can I use a different flavor instead of rose water?
While this is a traditional rose-flavored recipe, you can experiment with other extracts, though the rose flavor is classic for Lokum.
How long does Turkish Delight need to set?
The mixture should rest and set in the tin for at least 12 hours before cutting.
What is the best way to cut Turkish Delight?
Use a sharp knife that has been lightly oiled to prevent the chewy candy from sticking to the blade.
How do I prevent the individual pieces from sticking together?
Toss each cut square in a mixture of 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar and 1/4 cup cornflour.
What kind of pan should I use for this recipe?
A large, thick-based pan is recommended to ensure even heat distribution and prevent scorching during the long cooking time.
Is Turkish Delight gluten-free?
This recipe uses cornflour as the thickening agent, which is generally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredient labels.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 712.5 calories per serving in this recipe.
What size tin is needed for this recipe?
You should use an oiled 23 cm (9-inch) square cake tin.
Can I add nuts to my Lokum?
Yes, this recipe suggests folding in 1/2 cup of chopped toasted almonds if desired.
How much water is used in total?
A total of 4.5 cups of water is used, divided among the syrup, the cornflour mix, and the boiling water added to the paste.
What color should the mixture be when it is finished cooking?
The mixture should reach a pale golden hue after boiling for about 75 minutes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This specific recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
What ingredients are in the coating powder?
The coating is a blend of 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar and 1/4 cup cornflour.
Can the amount of rose water be adjusted?
Yes, you can use 1 tablespoon or double it to taste if you prefer a stronger floral flavor.
What is the role of lemon juice in the syrup?
Lemon juice acts as an acid that helps prevent the sucrose in the granulated sugar from recrystallizing.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, a thermometer is necessary to ensure the sugar syrup accurately reaches the 115"C soft ball stage.
At what temperature is the soft ball stage reached?
The soft ball stage is reached at 115"C or 240"F.
How do I remove lumps from the cornflour mixture?
Use a balloon whisk to stir the mixture constantly as it thickens to eliminate any lumps.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, unlike some gummy candies that use gelatin, this traditional Lokum uses cornflour and is vegan-friendly.
What is the protein content of this Turkish Delight?
Each serving contains approximately 1.88g of protein.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There is approximately 3.13g of fat per serving.
How do I achieve the pink color?
The pink tint is achieved by adding a few drops of red food coloring along with the rose water.
How should I store the finished candy?
Store the pieces in a sealed container, layering them with the extra sugar and cornflour mixture to keep them dry.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
According to the nutritional data provided, there is no fiber content in this recipe.