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Turkish Delight, lokum, or loukoum is a confection made from starch and sugar. It is often flavored with rosewater and lemon, the former giving it a characteristic pale pink color. It has a soft, jelly-like and sometimes sticky consistency, and is often packaged and eaten in small cubes that are dusted with sugar or copra to prevent sticking.
Some types contain small nut pieces, usually pistachio, hazelnut or
walnuts. Other common types include flavors such as cinnamon or mint.
Origin
According to the Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir Company of Istanbul, founded
in 1777, lokum as we know it today was invented and popularized by them
during the 19th century.
Lokum was introduced to the west in the 19th century. An unknown Briton
became very fond of the delicacy during his travels to Istanbul, and
purchased cases of lokum, to be shipped back to Britain under the name
Turkish Delight. It became a major delicacy not only in Britain, but
throughout continental Europe.
Around the world
In North America, Turkish Delight is not especially common, but it
forms the basic foundation of the Big Turk and Fry's Turkish Delight
chocolate bars. It is also the basis for most of Liberty Orchards' line
of confectionery, including Aplets & Cotlets and is the state candy
of Washington. It is known in Brazil (called rahat) due to Lebanese
immigration.
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