Akide Şekeri
A hard Ottoman-Turkish confection in drop or ball form, made by boiling sugar and water until solid. It comes in many flavors such as plain, mint, and cinnamon; tradition says it takes its name from being distributed at janissary pay ceremonies.
What Is Akide Şekeri (Ottoman Hard Candy)?
Akide şekeri is a hard Ottoman-Turkish confection in drop or ball shape, made by boiling sugar and water at high temperature until it solidifies. Its name is said to come from being served to Janissaries during Ottoman-era salary distribution ceremonies.
In traditional production, the boiled sugar syrup is shaped by dripping it drop by drop onto a cold surface. Alongside the plain white version, there are many flavor varieties such as mint, cinnamon, and lemon.
Nutritional Value of Akide Şekeri
100 grams of akide şekeri contain approximately 390 kcal of energy, being almost entirely sugar. Values vary by flavor variety and are approximate.
How Should Akide Şekeri Be Consumed?
Akide şekeri is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet, as a confectionery-group food.
This information is general; akide şekeri is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Those monitoring blood sugar should be mindful of its high sugar content, and due to its hardness, care should be taken with young children because of choking risk.
How to Choose Akide Şekeri?
Good akide şekeri has a smooth-glossy surface, a clear color (in the plain type), and has not absorbed moisture. Sticky or dull-looking pieces may be stale.
- The surface should be smooth-glossy, not dulled
- In the plain type, the color should be clear-transparent
- The pieces should not be stuck to each other
How to Store Akide Şekeri?
Akide şekeri can be stored for a long time in a sealed box in a dry cupboard; absorbing moisture can cause the pieces to stick together.
Using Akide Şekeri in the Kitchen
Akide şekeri is most commonly eaten directly as a snack, served during holiday and ceremonial occasions, and also used in some dessert decorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the name akide şekeri come from?
It is said that this candy was served during Ottoman-era salary (ulufe) distribution ceremonies to Janissaries, and the word "akide" is associated with this ceremonial sense of allegiance.
Can akide şekeri be made at home?
Yes; sugar and water are boiled to a certain temperature, then dripped drop by drop onto an oiled surface, left to cool, and shaped.
Is akide şekeri available all over Turkey?
Yes, it can be found especially at traditional confectioners, during holiday shopping seasons, and in many markets.