Turkish Delight (Lokum) – Authentic Homemade Recipe
A Sweet Journey to Istanbul in Every Bite
The first time I tasted Turkish Delight was during a layover in Istanbul. Tucked away in a tiny market stall, the shopkeeper handed me a rose-scented cube dusted with powdered sugar – it was chewy, fragrant, and unlike anything I’d ever tasted.
Since then, I’ve chased that memory back home, recreating this iconic sweet treat in my kitchen.
This recipe, inspired by Shaziya’s Recipes, is my homage to the traditional Turkish street food – simple, mesmerizing, and incredibly rewarding.
Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Purpose | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Saucepan (Medium) | Cooking sugar syrup and starch mixture | Kitchen supply stores / Online |
| Whisk or Spatula | Stirring and preventing lumps | Any grocery or utensil shop |
| 15cm Mold (square) | For shaping the Turkish Delight | Baking supply stores / Amazon |
| Measuring cups/spoons | For accurate ingredients | Supermarkets / Online |
| Sieve or Strainer | For dusting corn starch | Departmental stores |
Prep Time
- Total Time: 4 hours
(45 minutes active + 3 hours setting time + some cooling)
Ingredients
Sugar Syrup:
- 600g sugar (3 cups)
- 230ml water (1 cup)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
Cornstarch Base:
- 90g corn starch (¾ cup)
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 575ml water (2½ cups)
Flavoring & Color:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Finishing:
- Cooking oil (for greasing)
- Extra corn starch (for dusting)
Instructions: Step-by-Step
- Make the Sugar Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 600g sugar, 230ml water, and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Let it boil for 15 minutes until slightly thickened. Turn off the heat but keep warm.
- Prepare the Starch Base:
- In another pot, whisk together 90g corn starch, 1 tsp cream of tartar, and 575ml water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a paste (approx. 10 minutes).
- Combine Mixtures:
- Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the starch paste, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Simmer this mix on medium heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes glossy and gel-like.
- Add Flavor & Color:
- Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and your preferred food coloring.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Mold & Set:
- Lightly grease a 15cm mold with a little cooking oil.
- Pour the hot mixture into the mold and level the top.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 3 hours, uncovered, until completely set.
- Finish & Cut:
- Once set, dust your hands and a clean surface with corn starch.
- Carefully remove the Turkish Delight from the mold.
- Cut into cubes and roll each piece in corn starch to prevent sticking.
Food Storage
- Store Turkish Delight in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Do not refrigerate — moisture can ruin its texture.
- Stays fresh for 7-10 days when kept dry and cool.
Pro Tips
- Flavor Variations: Replace vanilla with rosewater, orange blossom, or lemon essence for authentic regional tastes.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pistachios or walnuts before setting the mixture in the mold.
- Color Combos: Use a few drops of beet juice or matcha powder for natural coloring.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 piece, approx. 25g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0.2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 1mg |
Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Is Turkish Delight gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe uses corn starch, making it naturally gluten-free.
2. Can I reduce the sugar?
Turkish Delight relies on sugar for structure and texture. Reducing it may cause issues with setting.
3. Why is my mixture not setting?
It could be undercooked or the sugar ratio was off. Be sure to cook until the texture is thick and jelly-like.
4. Can I use gelatin instead of corn starch?
Traditional Turkish Delight is starch-based. Gelatin versions are more like jelly candies and not authentic.
5. How do I avoid lumps in the mixture?
Whisk constantly and pour the sugar syrup slowly into the starch paste for a smooth texture.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet Reward for Your Effort
Homemade Turkish Delight might look tricky, but once you understand the process, it becomes truly therapeutic – stir, simmer, set.
The aroma filling your kitchen and the satisfaction of slicing into a perfect, glossy cube of sweetness is absolutely worth it.
I hope this recipe helps you recreate a taste of Turkish magic at home.
As always, I’m just a passionate home cook sharing what I love. Happy candy-making!