Holiday Candy- Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight

This is a sweet that was very popular in the 19th century. Originally from Turkey, these sweets swept Europe by storm once discovered.. They were favorites of famous people such as Napoleon, Pablo Picasso, and Winston Churchill. A relative of the aplet and cotlet, these are easily made at home.

2 c. sugar
1 1/4 c. water
1 lemon, juiced (strain) and the peel cut into strips
1 orange, juiced (strain) and the peel cut into strips
4 tablespoons unflavored powdered gelatin
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Dissolve the granulated sugar in half of the water over medium heat. Add the strips of lemon and orange peel and the juices. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutesuntil the syrup reaches the thread stage. Soften the gelatin by soaking it for 5 to 10 minutes and add to syrup .
Strain the mixture into a shallow, dampened pan or onto platters, and let it set for 24 hours. Cut the candy into 1-inch squares. Sift the confectioner's sugar and cornstarch together into a shallow dish. Roll the pieces of candy in the mixture. Store the squares in boxes with more confectioners' sugar and cornstarch between each layer.

These may also be made with various fruits and nuts.