Loukoumi (Cyprus Delight)

Loukoumi is Cyprus’s version of Turkish delight, a soft, rosewater-scented candy that has been made in the village of Geroskipou for centuries. It’s a simple confection of sugar, starch, and perfume, dusted in powdered sugar and cut into bite-sized cubes.

Ingredients

• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 cups water, divided
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 tablespoons rosewater
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
• 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
• 1/2 cup cornstarch, for dusting

Instructions

1. Make the syrup
   In a saucepan, combine the sugar, 1 cup water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes, then set aside.
2. Make the starch paste
   In a separate large pot, whisk the cornstarch, cream of tartar, and remaining 2 cups water until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
3. Combine and cook
   Slowly pour the hot syrup into the starch paste, whisking constantly. Cook over low heat, stirring often, for 45-60 minutes, until thick, glossy, and pale amber.
4. Add flavor and set
   Stir in the rosewater and almonds, then pour into a parchment-lined pan. Smooth the top and let set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. Cut and dust
   Mix the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Turn the loukoumi out, cut into cubes, and toss in the sugar mixture to coat.

Store loukoumi in an airtight container between layers of parchment, it keeps well for several weeks.