Delight in the unique and elegant flavors of Raspberry-Pistachio Turkish Delight, a homemade treat that elevates the traditional recipe with the addition of fresh raspberry puree and toasted pistachios. This version offers a delightful balance of fruity, nutty, and floral notes, making each bite a luxurious experience far surpassing any store-bought variety.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces raspberries, to yield 1/2 cup raspberry puree
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 cups water, divided use
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 1/4 cups cornstarch
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 2 tbsp rosewater
- 1/2 tsp raspberry extract (optional)
- 1 cup toasted pistachios, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Directions
- Prepare the Raspberry Puree:
- Puree the raspberries in a blender until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds. Combine the puree with enough water to make 3 cups of liquid.
- Cook the Sugar Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1.5 cups of water with the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Make the Cornstarch Mixture:
- In a larger saucepan, whisk together the raspberry-water mixture, cornstarch, and cream of tartar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Combine and Cook:
- Gradually add the hot sugar syrup to the cornstarch mixture, continuing to whisk vigorously to prevent any lumps. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring every 5-10 minutes to ensure it does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Flavorings and Nuts:
- Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater, raspberry extract (if using), and the chopped toasted pistachios.
- Set the Turkish Delight:
- Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch pan lined with greased parchment paper. Spread evenly and allow to set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Cut and Coat:
- Once set, cut the Turkish Delight into small squares. Roll each piece in powdered sugar to coat thoroughly. This helps to prevent the pieces from sticking together and adds a sweet finish.
Tips
- Precision in Temperature: Use a reliable candy thermometer to monitor the sugar syrup’s temperature for the best results.
- Continuous Stirring: Keep the mixture moving as it cooks to prevent it from burning and sticking to the pan.
- Coating: Ensure each piece is well-coated with powdered sugar to maintain the perfect texture and to enhance the sweetness.
Conclusion
This Raspberry-Pistachio Turkish Delight is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a joy to make. It blends the rich traditions of Turkish confectionery with a modern twist, creating a perfect gift for special occasions or a delightful treat to enjoy at home. Revel in the process and indulge in the exquisite combination of raspberry and pistachio in your very own batch of homemade Turkish Delight.