Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Turkish Poached Apricots are the perfect dessert when you want something sweet but not overly heavy. The combination of tender apricots, a fragrant syrup, and crunchy nuts makes this a truly satisfying treat. The addition of clotted cream or thick yogurt adds a rich and creamy contrast to the fruit, creating a balanced and luxurious dessert. Plus, this recipe is quick and easy, with most of the work done while the apricots soak, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried Turkish apricots
- 1 ¼ cups water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios or walnuts
- Clotted cream or thick yogurt, for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Soak the Apricots:
- Rinse the dried apricots thoroughly, then soak them in warm water for about 1 hour to soften.
- Prepare the Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer the Apricots:
- Drain the apricots from the soaking water and add them to the simmering syrup. Let them cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes on low heat, or until the apricots are plump and tender.
- Cool:
- Remove the cinnamon stick and allow the apricots to cool in the syrup. This helps them absorb the flavors.
- Optional Filling:
- For extra flavor and texture, gently open each apricot and fill with chopped pistachios or walnuts.
- Serve:
- Serve the poached apricots chilled or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of clotted cream or yogurt and extra nuts if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 1 hour (soaking time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
- Rose Water: Add a splash of rose water to the syrup for a traditional floral note, which complements the apricots beautifully.
- Nuts: Feel free to swap pistachios or walnuts with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Vegan: Substitute clotted cream or yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt, to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover poached apricots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to improve as it chills.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on low heat in the syrup or serve at room temperature. These apricots are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of dried apricots?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use high-quality Turkish dried apricots, but you can substitute with other varieties if needed.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance. The flavor improves as it chills in the syrup, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
3. Can I add other spices to the syrup?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like cloves, cardamom, or nutmeg to personalize the flavor of the syrup.
4. What can I use if I don’t have clotted cream or thick yogurt?
You can substitute clotted cream with mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich and indulgent topping.
5. Can I freeze poached apricots?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze the poached apricots for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
6. How can I make the syrup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker syrup, simply let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.
7. Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricots?
This recipe is traditionally made with dried apricots, but fresh apricots may also work with a few adjustments to the syrup cooking time.
8. How do I know when the apricots are ready?
The apricots are ready when they are plump, tender, and have absorbed the sweetness of the syrup. They should be soft but still hold their shape.
9. Can I add a sweetener other than granulated sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
10. Can I serve these poached apricots warm?
While traditionally served chilled, you can enjoy these poached apricots warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.
Conclusion
Turkish Poached Apricots are a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and rich syrup, these apricots are a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and floral notes. Whether served with clotted cream, yogurt, or nuts, they offer a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Give this easy, luscious recipe a try for your next dessert!
Turkish Poached Apricots – A Luscious, Easy Treat Ready in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Turkish Poached Apricots, or *Kayısı Tatlısı*, are a delightful dessert made by simmering dried apricots in a fragrant, lightly spiced syrup. The poached apricots are tender, sweet, and often filled with nuts, making this a luxurious treat that’s easy to prepare in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
1 cup dried Turkish apricots
1 ¼ cups water
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
¼ cup chopped pistachios or walnuts
Clotted cream or thick yogurt, for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the dried apricots thoroughly, then soak them in warm water for about 1 hour to soften.
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Drain the apricots from the soaking water and add them to the simmering syrup. Let them cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes on low heat, or until the apricots are plump and tender.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and allow the apricots to cool in the syrup to absorb the flavors.
- For extra flavor and texture, gently open each apricot and fill with chopped pistachios or walnuts.
- Serve the poached apricots chilled or at room temperature, topped with clotted cream or yogurt and extra nuts if desired.
Notes
For a floral note, add a splash of rose water to the syrup.
Try substituting the pistachios or walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for different textures.
To make this dessert vegan, use coconut yogurt or another dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 1 hour (soaking time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apricot
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
