During the reign of the Ottoman Empire sugar acquired a new
identity and became known as akide candy. "Akide" means a
confession of faith and stands for trust, loyalty and solidarity. Every three
months, a meal was served to the Janissaries in the palace garden when their
remuneration was distributed. If the Janissaries were satisfied with their food
and payment, they would present akide candy to high court officials as a symbol
of loyalty to the Sultan...
A number of factors contributed to the characteristics of
akide candy making its quality unique. The raw materials used and the mastery
with which it was prepared ensured its high standard. Honey was added to
enhance its flavour and the ingredients such as fruits and nuts where sourced
from specialised regions, harvested at their peak and blended expertly
depending on which type of candy was being produced.
To make akide candy, sugar syrup containing 35-40% water is boiled
in copper cauldrons over a wood fire to attain the correct temperature and
consistency. The flavours are added to the sugar syrup while it cools. The
malleable candy is then shaped into the desired form...
You should try them at Ali
Muhiddin Hacı Bekir, Şekerci Cafer Erol, or Üç Yıldız
Şekerlemecisi in Istanbul...
