Traditional Turkish Delight with Rosewater and Pistachios

Traditional Turkish Delight with Rosewater and Pistachios (Lokum)

Ingredients

• For the Turkish Delight:

• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 3/4 cups water (divided)
• 1 tablespoon rosewater
• 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
• Red food coloring (optional)

• For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch

Instructions

Preparing the Sugar Syrup:

In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, and lemon juice.

Stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved.

Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and bring the mixture to a boil.

Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), then remove from heat.

Preparing the Cornstarch Mixture:

In another large saucepan, whisk together 1 cup of cornstarch, cream of tartar, and 2 3/4 cups of water until smooth.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.

Combining and Cooking:

Gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the thickened cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 60-90 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden color and is very thick and gluey.

Stir in the rosewater, chopped pistachios, and a few drops of red food coloring if using. Mix until well combined.

Setting the Turkish Delight:

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with plastic wrap and lightly grease it.

Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and let it set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Preparing the Coating:

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and cornstarch.

Cutting and Coating:

Once the Turkish Delight is fully set, remove it from the dish and peel off the plastic wrap.

Use a sharp knife dusted with the powdered sugar mixture to cut the Turkish Delight into small squares.

Roll each square in the powdered sugar mixture to coat all sides.

Serving:

Arrange the Turkish Delight on a serving platter.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container with additional powdered sugar mixture to prevent sticking.