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 8×8-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.