Rose Scented Turkish Delight (Lokum)
An enchanting sweet treat enjoyed since the 1700s, Rose Scented Turkish Delight, or Lokum, is a classic confectionery delight that embodies the essence of Turkish cuisine. Once famously tempting enough to sway Edmund Pevensie under the spell of the White Witch in C.S. Lewis's 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,' this delicacy continues to charm with its delicate rose flavor and soft, chewy texture. Perfect for special occasions or simply as a unique dessert, this homemade recipe will guide you through the creation of this iconic candy.
25
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
granulated sugar
4 cups (none)
cornstarch
1 1/4 cups (divided)
cream of tartar
1 teaspoon (none)
water
4 1/4 cups (divided)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
rose water
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
confectioners' sugar
1 cup (sifted)
vegetable oil or shortening
as needed (for greasing)
Instructions
1
Prepare a 9-inch square baking pan by greasing the sides and bottom with vegetable oil or shortening. Line the pan with wax paper, ensuring it adheres, and lightly grease the wax paper too.
2
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, sugar, and 1 1/2 cups of water. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves, then allow the mixture to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat.
3
In a separate saucepan, whisk together cream of tartar, 1 cup of cornstarch, and the remaining 2 3/4 cups of water. Heat over medium, stirring until smooth and the mixture boils, reaching a glue-like consistency.
4
Gently stir the sugar mixture into the cornstarch mixture. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until well combined.
5
Continue to simmer on low heat for 1 hour, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns a golden color. Stir in rose water until fully incorporated.
6
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature overnight to set completely.
7
The next day, mix together the confectioners' sugar and remaining 1/4 cup of cornstarch in a bowl. Turn the set Turkish delight onto a clean surface and use an oiled knife to cut into 1-inch squares.
8
Dust each piece with the sugar-cornstarch mixture, ensuring even coating. Store the Turkish delight in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Serve as desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lokum?
Lokum is the traditional name for Rose Scented Turkish Delight, a classic confectionery treat enjoyed since the 1700s.
How long has Turkish Delight been around?
This enchanting sweet has been part of Turkish cuisine since the 1700s.
Who mentioned Turkish Delight in literature?
Turkish Delight famously appeared in C.S. Lewis's 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,' where it was used by the White Witch to tempt Edmund Pevensie.
What is the flavor profile of this recipe?
This recipe features a delicate rose flavor and a soft, chewy texture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 25 servings.
What size pan should I use?
You should use a 9-inch square baking pan for this recipe.
How do I prepare the baking pan?
Grease the sides and bottom with vegetable oil or shortening, line it with wax paper, and then lightly grease the wax paper as well.
What temperature should the sugar syrup reach?
The sugar and water mixture should reach 240 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer.
What is the role of cream of tartar in this recipe?
Cream of tartar is mixed with cornstarch and water to create the base consistency for the candy.
What consistency should the cornstarch mixture reach?
The cornstarch mixture should be heated until it reaches a glue-like consistency.
How long does the combined mixture need to simmer?
The combined sugar and cornstarch mixture needs to simmer on low heat for 1 hour.
What color should the Lokum be when finished simmering?
The mixture should turn a golden color after simmering for one hour.
When should the rose water be added?
The rose water should be stirred in after the mixture has simmered for an hour and turned golden.
How long does it take for Turkish Delight to set?
It should be allowed to cool at room temperature overnight to set completely.
What is used to dust the finished candies?
A mixture of 1 cup of confectioners' sugar and 1/4 cup of cornstarch is used for dusting.
How do I prevent the knife from sticking when cutting?
Use an oiled knife to cut the set Turkish Delight into squares.
What size should the pieces be cut into?
The Turkish Delight should be cut into 1-inch squares.
How should I store homemade Turkish Delight?
Store them in an airtight container, separating the layers with parchment paper.
What are the main ingredients for the syrup?
The syrup is made from granulated sugar, lemon juice, and 1 1/2 cups of water.
Does this recipe use real lemon juice?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is vegetable oil necessary for the recipe?
Vegetable oil or shortening is necessary for greasing the pan and the knife to prevent sticking.
How much sugar is required in total?
The recipe requires 4 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of sifted confectioners' sugar.
What type of cornstarch is needed?
Standard cornstarch is used, totaling 1 1/4 cups divided between the cooking process and the dusting mixture.
Can I serve this for special occasions?
Yes, it is described as a perfect treat for special occasions or as a unique dessert.
Is this recipe vegan?
Based on the ingredients provided (sugar, cornstarch, rose water, lemon), this recipe is vegan-friendly.
What is the texture of the final product?
The final product has a soft and chewy texture.
How much water is used in the cornstarch mixture?
The cornstarch mixture uses 2 3/4 cups of water.
Is there any protein in this dessert?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the protein content is null/minimal.
Do I need to refrigerate the Lokum to set it?
No, the recipe specifies allowing it to cool at room temperature overnight.
What equipment is essential for this recipe?
Essential equipment includes two saucepans, a candy thermometer, and a 9-inch square baking pan.