Top Health Benefits of Lokum You Need to Know

Turkish Delight, also known as Lokum, offers a unique blend of sweetness and texture, primarily derived from its key ingredients: sugar, cornstarch, and nuts. Despite being a sugary treat, it contains small amounts of protein, mainly from the nuts, which provide essential nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Nuts such as almonds and hazelnuts are packed with antioxidants, heart-healthy fats, and vitamin E, supporting skin health and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. The use of rose water or vanilla extract adds a delightful aromatic touch, enhancing its appeal without any significant nutritional drawbacks. However, due to its high sugar content, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially for those managing blood sugar levels or those with calorie-conscious goals. The presence of coconut as a coating also provides some dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health.

Ingredients :

Sugar : 2 Cup

Corn starch : 1/2 Cup

Water : 1 1/2 Cup

Lemon Juice : 1 Tablespoon

Rosewater : 1 Tablespoon

Coconut powder : as needed

Hazelnuts : 10 Piece

Almonds-

Powdered Sugar : 1/2 Cup

Homemade Turkish Delight - A Melt-in-your-mouth Delight

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

In a pot, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it boils.
Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent crystallization.
Simmer for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 2: Mix the Starch

Dissolve 1/2 cup of cornstarch in 1/2 cup of cold water.
Ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the syrup while stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture turns clear and thick.
Add 1 tablespoon of rose water or vanilla extract for flavor.

Step 4: Set the Lokum

Grease a rectangular mold or line it with parchment paper.
Pour the mixture into the mold and smooth the top with a spatula.
Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Cut and Decorate

Once set, cut the lokum into small cubes using a sharp knife.
Roll each piece in shredded coconut or powdered sugar for coating.
Optionally, garnish with hazelnuts or almonds on top.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Turkish Lokum!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Lokum

When making Turkish Delight, it is crucial to ensure that the sugar syrup does not crystallize. The addition of lemon juice is key to preventing this and ensuring a smooth texture. Consistently stirring the mixture while adding the cornstarch is essential to avoid lumps and achieve the desired consistency. It’s also important to cook the mixture on low heat for around 30 minutes, as overheating can alter the texture and cause it to become too thick or uneven. While preparing, be sure to grease the mold adequately to make it easier to remove the set Lokum. Once poured into the mold, the mixture should be left to cool at room temperature before being refrigerated for a few hours to ensure it firms up properly. Additionally, if using any flavorings like rose water or vanilla extract, be mindful of the quantity to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor of the treat.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Lokum

Turkish Delight is primarily a sugary treat, which makes it less suitable for certain diets. It is not suitable for Ketogenic or Paleo diets, as it contains high amounts of sugar and carbs, which can disrupt ketosis or the principles of the Paleo diet. Similarly, it is not recommended for Low Calorie diets without modifications, as the sugar content is quite high. For Gluten-Free diets, it is a suitable option, as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients. Those following a Vegan or Vegetarian diet will also find this treat appropriate, as it contains no animal-derived products (assuming plant-based coatings and flavorings). However, individuals following a DASH diet, which focuses on low sodium and balanced nutrition, should be cautious with portion sizes, as the treat can be high in sugar and may not fit well into a salt-conscious regimen. If you're practicing Intermittent Fasting, it’s best to enjoy Turkish Delight during your eating window to prevent the impact of sugar on insulin levels.