Dairy-Free Traditional Turkish Delight
Indulge in the timeless charm of **Dairy-Free Traditional Turkish Delight**, a silky, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s completely plant-based and bursting with classic Middle Eastern flavors. This recipe uses simple pantry staples like sugar, cornstarch, and fragrant rosewater to recreate the authentic texture and aroma of this beloved confection—without any dairy. Perfectly soft and chewy, each square is lightly dusted with a blend of powdered sugar and cornstarch for that signature delicate finish. Whether you're catering to dietary restrictions or simply looking for a nostalgic homemade dessert, this recipe offers an easy, step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect batch. With no artificial additives and the option to customize with natural food coloring, this alluring treat is as beautiful as it is delicious.
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Ingredients
- 400 grams granulated sugar
- 300 milliliters water
- 100 grams cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons rosewater
- 2 drops optional food coloring (e.g., pink for rose)
- 50 grams powdered sugar
- 50 grams extra cornstarch for dusting
Directions
Step 1
Grease an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) square baking dish with a light layer of oil and line it with parchment paper. Set it aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, 150 milliliters of water, and lemon juice. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3
Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Use a candy thermometer and allow the mixture to reach 115°C (240°F), also known as the 'soft ball stage.' Remove from heat.
Step 4
In a separate large saucepan or pot, whisk the cornstarch with the remaining 150 milliliters of water until smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5
Place the pot with the cornstarch mixture over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a paste. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6
Gradually add the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch paste, one ladleful at a time, while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth mixture.
Step 7
Once all the syrup has been incorporated, reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture for another 40-50 minutes, stirring frequently with a heatproof spatula. The mixture should become thick, glossy, and pale golden in color.
Step 8
Stir in the rosewater and food coloring (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 9
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight until fully set.
Step 10
Once the Turkish Delight has set, combine the powdered sugar and extra cornstarch in a bowl. Dust a clean surface with some of this mixture.
Step 11
Invert the Turkish Delight onto the dusted surface and peel off the parchment paper. Cut it into small squares using a greased knife, periodically dusting the knife to prevent sticking.
Step 12
Toss the cut pieces in the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture to ensure they are fully coated.
Step 13
Store the Turkish Delight in an airtight container at room temperature, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Enjoy your homemade dairy-free treat!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (949.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2292.6 |
| Total Fat 0.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 0.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 19.3mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 587.7g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 0.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 449.3g | |
| Protein 0.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 21.7mg | 0% |
| Iron 1.0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 19.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories