What Is Turkish Delight?
Lokum (Turkish delight) is a traditional Turkish confection made by boiling starch and sugar syrup for a long time until it reaches a jelly-like consistency, pouring it into molds and letting it rest, then cutting it into cubes and coating them with powdered sugar or shredded coconut.
It has a long history that reaches back to Ottoman palace cuisine and is known around the world as “Turkish delight.” In addition to plain varieties, it comes with many flavors and fillings, such as walnut, pistachio, rosewater, and orange or lemon peel.
Turkish Delight Nutrition Facts
One hundred grams of plain Turkish delight contains about 350 kcal and is very high in sugar. Walnut and pistachio varieties contain additional fat and protein. Values vary by variety and are approximate.
How Should Turkish Delight Be Eaten?
Turkish delight is a confection that is eaten in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; Turkish delight is a food, not a medical treatment. People who monitor blood sugar should be mindful of its high sugar content. People with a nut allergy should avoid lokum varieties containing that nut completely.
How to Choose Turkish Delight
Good Turkish delight is soft and elastic, sticky when cut but holds together, and within its freshness date. Turkish delight that has hardened or crystallized is stale.
- It should be soft and elastic, not hard as a rock.
- When cut, it should be sticky but hold its shape.
- The powdered sugar coating should be evenly distributed.
How to Store Turkish Delight
Turkish delight stays fresh for a few weeks to a few months in a sealed box in a cool, dry cupboard. Moisture can affect its texture.
Using Turkish Delight in the Kitchen
Turkish delight is most often served with Turkish coffee and is also chopped and used to decorate some desserts and cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Turkish delight and jelly candies the same thing?
No. Jelly candies are generally made with gelatin or pectin, while Turkish delight gets its characteristic consistency from cooked starch, which gives it a different texture.
Can Turkish delight be made at home?
Yes. Starch and sugar syrup are stirred continuously and boiled for a long time. Once thickened, the mixture can be poured into a mold, left to rest, and cut into pieces.
Is Turkish delight available throughout Türkiye?
Yes, it is very common and is available in a variety of flavors and fillings at candy shops, bakeries, and nearly every supermarket.