Spongy Turkish Delights

This classic dish from the UK will make a hit at your Spongebob party. Turkish Delights are made with gelatin so they are just a little bit 'spongy' when eaten.

2 cups (1/2 liter) granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups (300 ml) water
1 lemon, the peel cut into strips, the juice squeezed and strained
1 orange, the peel cut into strips, the juice squeezed and strained
4 tablespoons (60 ml) unflavoured powdered gelatin
2 tablespoons (30 ml) confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) cornstarch

Dissolve the granulated sugar in half of the water over medium heat. Add the strips of lemon and orange peel and the juices. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Soften the gelatin by soaking it for 5 to 10 minutes in the rest of the water. Add the gelatin to the sugar syrup stirring well, and boil for 10 minutes, until the syrup reaches the thread stage.

Strain the mixture into shallow dampened pan or onto platters, and let it set for 24 hours. Cut the candy into 1-inch (2 1/2 cm) squares. Sift the confectioners' sugar and cornstarch together into a shallow dish. Roll the pieces of candy in the mixture. Store the squares in boxes with more confectioners' sugar and cornstarch between each layer.

When I'm feeling a little 'british' I like to make up this candy recipe and watch Agatha Christie Movies. It's also good for Christmas time.