Turkish Delight

Introduction:

This appealing candy is easy to make at home. Rosewater can be found at apecialty food stores. When the sugar syrup boils, coat the inside of the saucepan with a brush dipped in water to prevent sugar crystals from forming.

Makes 80 pieces.
Total time : 2 hours.


Ingredients:

4 cups sugar
4 1/2 cups water
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 1/4 cups cornstarch
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 1/2 tablespoons rosewater
red food coloring(optional)
1 cup confectioners sugar

Step 1:
Oil a 9-inch square pan. Line with plastic wrap and oil the plastic wrap.

Step 2:
In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, 1 1/2 cups of the water, and the lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture boils. Reduce the heat and simmer gently, without stirring, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (240 F on a candy thermometer). Remove the pan from the heat.

Step 3:
In a second large heavy saucepan over medium heat, stir together 1 cup cornstarch and the cream of tartar. Gradually stir in the remaining 3 cups of water until no lumps remain. Stir constantly, until the mixture boils and is a thick, guley paste.

Step 4:
Slowly pour the hot sugar, water and lemon juice syrup into the cornstarch mixture, stirrring constantly. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring often to prevent sticking, for about 1 hour, or until the mixture has become a pale golden color.

Step 5:
Stir in the rosewater and trint as desired with food coloring. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Cool to room temperature and let stand, uncovered, overnight to set.

Step 6:
Sift the confectioners sugar and the remaining 1/4 cup cornstarch onto a large cutting board. Turn the Turkish Delight out and cut into 1-inch squares with and oiled knife. Roll pieces in the sugar mixture to coat well. Store in an airtight container with sheets of waxed paper, dusted with the sugar mixture, separating every layer.