Ayva Şekeri

Background

Ayva Şekeri, also known as Quince Candy, is a traditional Turkish sweet that highlights the unique flavor and texture of quince. This delectable treat dates back centuries, often associated with festive occasions and home gatherings in Turkey. Quince, a fruit related to apples and pears, is known for its hard texture and tart flavor, which transforms into something delightfully sweet and aromatic during cooking. The making of Ayva Şekeri reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Ottoman Empire, where quince was revered not just for its flavor, but also for its medicinal properties thought to enhance digestion and mood.

Today, Ayva Şekeri remains a popular sweet served during special occasions such as weddings and religious festivals. This confectionery is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often gifted during festive seasons as a symbol of prosperity and happiness. The process of making Ayva Şekeri is as enjoyable as the final product itself, offering an aromatic experience that fills the kitchen with the sweet and inviting scent of spices.

Ingredients

• Ayva (Quince) - 1 kg
• Sugar - 1 kg
• Water - 1 liter
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Cloves - 5
• Rose water - Optional, 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Start by washing the ayva under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. It's important to select ripe ayva as this will yield the best flavor for your Ayva Şekeri. Using a sharp knife, peel the quince, removing the skin carefully without discarding it. The peel will be used later in the process due to its natural pectin content, which helps in jelling the confection.

Next, cut the peeled quince into quarters, removing the core and seeds. Again, retain the cores and seeds; these contain additional pectin and flavor. Dice the quince into small, even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Place the quince pieces in a bowl of water with half a lemon's juice to prevent them from browning.

Setting Up the Cooking Space

Prepare a large pot by placing it on the stove. In the pot, combine the reserved peels, cores, seeds, and the rest of the water. Add the diced quince, ensuring it is fully submerged. Incorporate the remaining half of the lemon's juice, the cinnamon stick, and cloves. If you are using rose water, add it at this stage for an authentic hint of floral fragrance.

Cooking Process

Heat the pot over medium flame, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for approximately 45 to 60 minutes or until the quince becomes transparent and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. While stirring, enjoy the emerging aroma which is an inviting mix of fruit and spice. If you require a guideline regarding cooking times, please refer to our cooking timer.

Once the quince pieces reach the desired consistency, remove all the quince, peels, and spices using a slotted spoon and set aside. Into the strained liquid, gradually add the sugar while stirring to dissolve. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Boil the syrup until it thickens and reaches a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This should take another 30 to 40 minutes. Skim off any foam that may form on the surface for a clearer end product.

Final Steps

Re-introduce the cooked quince pieces into the thickened syrup and continue cooking for an additional 20 minutes on low heat. Ensure the quince is well-coated in the syrup. The mixture should now start to take on an attractive glossy sheen typical of Ayva Şekeri.

Remove the pot from heat and let the confectionery cool slightly before transferring it into sterilized glass jars. Seal the jars while warm to ensure the longevity of the sweet. Allow the Ayva Şekeri to cool completely at room temperature before serving.

How to Enjoy

Ayva Şekeri is best enjoyed once it has completely set and developed its full flavor profile. It can be served as a stand-alone dessert or paired with Turkish tea or coffee for an authentic experience. You may also cut it into small squares and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

This sweet treat can also be a delightful addition to your dessert platter during festive celebrations or wrapped beautifully for gifting. Some enjoy Ayva Şekeri with a dollop of cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts to add an extra layer of indulgence.

Regardless of how you serve it, Ayva Şekeri embodies a unique sweetness that is sure to leave an unforgettable impression on anyone who tastes it.