**Şekerpare: A Traditional Turkish Delight**
**Introduction**
Hello and welcome to my blog Today, I’m excited to share with you one of the most beloved Turkish desserts, Şekerpare. This sweet treat is a staple in Turkish cuisine, and for good reason. Its crispy exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior, and its subtle sweetness is balanced by a hint of citrus. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, Şekerpare is sure to delight.
**What is Şekerpare?**
Şekerpare is a traditional Turkish dessert that consists of small, round balls of dough that are deep-fried and then soaked in a sweet syrup. The dough is typically made with flour, sugar, and eggs, and is flavored with a hint of lemon or orange zest. The syrup is made with sugar, water, and rose water, and is flavored with a hint of lemon or orange juice.
**Why is Şekerpare so Good?**
So, what makes Şekerpare so special? For starters, the combination of crispy exterior and soft interior is a match made in heaven. The dough is cooked to perfection, giving it a delightful texture that’s both crunchy and chewy. The syrup adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the dough perfectly. And let’s not forget the aroma – the scent of sugar and rose water wafting from the syrup is simply intoxicating.
**Who is this Recipe For?**
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Turkish cuisine or is looking to try something new. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, Şekerpare is a great recipe to try. It’s also a great dessert to serve at parties or special occasions, as it’s sure to impress your guests.
**Time Required**
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
**Difficulty Level**
Easy
**Nutritional Information**
Per serving:
* Calories: 120
* Carbohydrates: 25g
* Protein: 2g
* Fat: 2g
* Sodium: 50mg
* Sugar: 15g
* Fiber: 1g
* Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
* Vitamin C: 20% of the DV
* Calcium: 10% of the DV
* Iron: 15% of the DV
**Portion Size**
This recipe makes 12-15 Şekerpare.
**Ingredients**
| **Ingredient** | **Quantity** | **Checkbox** |
| — | — | — |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Eggs | 2 large | |
| Lemon or orange zest | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Vegetable oil | 2 cups | |
| Rose water | 1 tablespoon | |
| Lemon or orange juice | 1 tablespoon | |
| Water | 1 cup | |
**Kitchen Equipment Needed**
* Deep frying pan
* Thermometer
* Slotted spoon
* Wire rack
* Bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Preparation Steps**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon or orange zest.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Using a slotted spoon, drop the dough into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
8. Fry the Şekerpare for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
9. Remove the Şekerpare from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the rose water and lemon or orange juice.
11. Add the syrup to the Şekerpare and toss to coat.
12. Serve the Şekerpare warm or at room temperature.
**How to Store Leftovers**
Leftover Şekerpare can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the Şekerpare in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
**Food and Drink Pairings**
Şekerpare pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Turkish coffee or a glass of sweet tea. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
**FAQs**
**Q: Can I use different flavors of zest?**
A: Yes, you can use different flavors of zest, such as lemon, orange, or even grapefruit.
**Q: Can I make Şekerpare ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to fry the Şekerpare just before serving.
**Q: Can I use a different type of oil?**
A: Yes, you can use a different type of oil, such as peanut oil or avocado oil. However, make sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent the Şekerpare from burning.
**Q: Can I make Şekerpare gluten-free?**
A: Yes, you can make Şekerpare gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
**Q: Can I freeze Şekerpare?**
A: Yes, you can freeze Şekerpare for up to 2 months. Simply place the Şekerpare in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
**Conclusion**
And there you have it – a delicious and authentic Turkish dessert recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With its crispy exterior and soft interior, Şekerpare is a treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think
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