Turkish desserts are often very syrupy and sweet, which is funny because Turkish cuisine is usually not sweet. It’s savory, with lots of fresh meats, veggies, grains, and olive oil. This is a delicious dessert recipe that my husband grew up eating. His mother made it for him and served it with fresh whipped cream on top.
It is served nearly every day in Turkish households during the cooler months. Give it a try. The smells will fragrance your home while the taste will have your tongue singing!
For this recipe you’ll need:
¼ of a medium-sized pumpkin
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
1-cup walnuts
Sweetened whipping cream for the top if desired
To make this recipe:
Cut pumpkin into quarters. Remove seeds and stringy interior. Pare and cut into (2-2 1/2 inch) slices (0.5-3/4 inch) thick. Place in a covered shallow pan. Sprinkle with sugar. Let stand for 4-5 hours until pumpkin is juicy. Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until tender. Remove from heat; cool. Arrange on a serving plate. Sprinkle with crushed walnuts and top with sweetened whipped cream if desired. Serve at room temperature.
6 servings
*To Americanize this you may also add some additional spices to the pumpkin before baking, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.