Preparation

In C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the White Witch uses Turkish Delight to manipulate young Edmund. Our version captures the magical, intoxicating quality of that enchanted confection with floral rose notes and the ruby-red pop of fresh pomegranate.

Instructions

1. Line a 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with vegetable oil.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar with 1½ cups of water. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Let it simmer without stirring.
3. In a separate large pot, whisk together cornstarch and cream of tartar. Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Place the cornstarch mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it becomes thick and gluey, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, slowly pour it into the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly. Be very careful as it will bubble vigorously.
6. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 1 hour. The mixture will become golden and translucent.
7. Remove from heat and stir in rose water and a few drops of red food coloring if desired.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes, then gently fold in pomegranate seeds.
9. Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top. Let set at room temperature for at least 6 hours or overnight.
10. Mix powdered sugar with ½ cup cornstarch. Turn out the Turkish Delight onto this mixture and cut into squares with an oiled knife.
11. Toss each piece in the sugar-cornstarch mixture to coat completely.

Storage tip: Keep in an airtight container with extra dusting powder between layers. These will keep for up to 2 weeks.