Shekerpare is a popular, syrup-soaked Turkish dessert with a unique flavor, thanks to the combination of semolina and sugar syrup. This delicious treat can be made in various forms, both at home and in bakeries. In this article, we’ll show you how to make pastane-style shekerpare at home, guaranteed to impress with its taste and appearance. Let’s dive into the perfect shekerpare recipe.
Ingredients for Shekerpare
For the Dough
- 1 cup Sunflower Oil (200 ml)
- 1 cup Semolina
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
- 3 Eggs (one yolk reserved for brushing)
- 1 packet Vanilla
- 1 packet Baking Powder
- 3 cups Flour
For the Syrup
- 2.5 cups Granulated Sugar
- 3 cups Water (600 ml)
- A few drops of Lemon Juice
For the Topping
- 1 Egg Yolk
Shekerpare Preparation
1. Preparing the Syrup
To prepare the syrup, combine 3 cups of water and 2.5 cups of granulated sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Let the syrup boil for 10 minutes, then add a few drops of lemon juice. After adding the lemon juice, boil for 5 minutes and then remove from heat. Set the syrup aside to cool.
2. Preparing the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sunflower oil, 1 packet of vanilla, and 3 eggs (remember to reserve one yolk for brushing later). Begin whisking the ingredients together. Next, add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar to the mixture and continue to mix.
Gradually incorporate 1 cup of semolina and 1 packet of baking powder into the mixture. Slowly add 3 cups of flour to the dough and mix thoroughly. Once the dough starts to come together, continue kneading with your hands.
3. Shaping the Shekerpare
Pinch off a piece of dough and roll it into a ball in your hands. Then, press down on the dough to give it the classic shekerpare shape. Place the shaped shekerpare onto a baking sheet, and repeat the process until all the dough has been used.
Once all the shekerpare have been shaped and placed on the baking sheet, brush the tops with the reserved egg yolk. Finally, use a fork to create a pattern on the surface of each shekerpare, giving them their signature look.
4. Baking the Shekerpare
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the shekerpare on the middle rack for approximately 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Remove the baked shekerpare from the oven.
5. Soaking the Shekerpare in Syrup
To ensure the shekerpare absorb the syrup evenly, transfer them to a smaller, more narrow dish. Pour the cooled syrup evenly over the warm shekerpare, making sure to cover them completely. Allow the shekerpare to rest and soak up the syrup for several hours.
Once the shekerpare have fully absorbed the syrup, they are ready to be served. Enjoy this delightful Turkish dessert, and bon appétit!
A Brief History of Shekerpare
Shekerpare has been a beloved and widespread dessert in Turkish cuisine since the time of the Ottoman Empire. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the history and origins of shekerpare.
Origins and Etymology
Shekerpare originated in the kitchens of the Ottoman Empire’s palace and spread throughout Turkish cuisine over time. The name of this sweet treat comes from a combination of the Arabic word for “sugar” and the Persian word “pare,” meaning “piece.” Thus, shekerpare translates to “sugary piece.”
Tips for Making Shekerpare
- Preparing the Dough: Ensure the butter or margarine is fully melted and cooled to room temperature before incorporating it into the dough.
- Adding Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a hazelnut or walnut to the center of each shekerpare before baking.
- Baking the Shekerpare: Be sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature, and bake the shekerpare until they’re golden brown on top. This will take about 25-30 minutes.
- Soaking the Shekerpare: To achieve the perfect syrup-soaked texture, pour the cooled syrup over the warm shekerpare and let them sit until the syrup is completely absorbed.
By following these tips and the recipe provided, you’ll be able to create a truly delicious and authentic shekerpare dessert, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the rich history and delightful taste of this classic Turkish treat!
