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TurkishAuthentic Cuisine

Lokum

Serves 4 to 6 Dessert vegan, Desserts

Lokum

Lokum, often referred to as Turkish delight, is a confection that traces its origins back to the Ottoman Empire. This sweet treat has been perfected over centuries by Turkish confectioners and is traditionally enjoyed during festive occasions and as an everyday indulgence. The recipe here is a home version, capturing the essence of how a Turkish family cook prepares it without the constraints of commercial production.

The lokum should be soft and chewy with a delicate balance of sweetness and floral notes from rose water. The addition of pistachios provides a delightful crunch, contrasting with the smooth texture of the candy. It is typically enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea, offering a moment of pure, sweet bliss.

Ingredients

  • 500 gsugar
  • 100 gstarch
  • 1 Lwater
  • 1 tbsprose water
  • pistachios — optional

Method

  1. Start by preparing your ingredients. In a medium saucepan, combine 500 g of sugar and 100 g of starch. Gradually add 1 L of water while stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. This mixture will form the base of your Lokum.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue to stir the mixture consistently. As it heats, the mixture will begin to thicken and turn glossy. This process is crucial to avoid any lumps and to ensure a smooth texture.
  3. Once the mixture has thickened, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook it slowly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. You'll know it's ready when the mixture becomes very thick and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, resembling a soft dough.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of rose water. Mix well to distribute the fragrance evenly throughout the Lokum. The rose water will give your Lokum its characteristic floral aroma.
  5. Prepare a square or rectangular dish by lightly oiling it to prevent sticking. Pour the thick Lokum mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature until it is firm to the touch.
  6. Once set, sprinkle pistachios generously over the top of the Lokum. Press them gently into the surface to ensure they adhere well. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the soft Lokum.
  7. Finally, cut the Lokum into small squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Serve at room temperature, allowing the flavors to be enjoyed fully. Lokum is best shared with family and friends, embodying the spirit of Turkish hospitality.
Cover of Authentic Turkish Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Turkish Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Turkish Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Turkish volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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