Kabak Tatlisi - Turkish Pumpkin Dessert

As a couple from Turkey, we love all Turkish desserts and celebrate the pumpkin season with this amazing dessert called kabak tatlisi. 

This easy pumpkin dessert recipe is identified with pumpkin in Turkish cuisine. When you see somebody buys pumpkin from the market in Turkey, it is 99% certain that they will be making kabak tatlisi.

It is so typical that sellers at local bazaars sell pumpkins sliced and peeled in packages to make it even easier to make this amazing treat.

Back in Turkey, we used to get really excited whenever we saw peeled and sliced pumpkin sold in bags in our local market. You know, it gets super easy to make your recipe when the main ingredient is ready to use.

What is Kabak Tatlısı?

It is a popular and simple dessert from Turkish cuisine. Kabak is the word used for all types of squash, zucchini and pumpkin. Tatli means dessert or sweet. Kabak tatlisi means the dessert made of pumpkin.

You can find it at local restaurants and in many Turkish homes during the fall and winter months. The recipe is quite straightforward and similar to Turkish quince dessert, ayva tatlisi.

This dessert is made from pumpkin that is sweetened with sugar. It is either cooked or baked until soft and served cold or at room temperature. You can enjoy it as it is or garnish it with nuts, cinnamon or clotted cream, kaymak.

The best part is that it's super easy to make and doesn't cost a lot, making it a budget-friendly and comforting dessert option for many Turkish families.

If you like simple fruit desserts like this, go check out our baked pears recipe too!

About The Ingredients

To create the delicious kabak tatlısı, you'll need just two primary ingredients: pumpkin and sugar.  

Pumpkin

Although technically, you can use various pumpkin types to prepare this simple dessert, the choice of pumpkin can significantly impact the final taste and texture of the dessert. In Turkey, the preferred variety for this dessert is known as "Balkabağı" as its flesh is thicker and not stringy.

If you're preparing this dessert outside of Turkey, you might not find the exact variety. Instead, look for pumpkin varieties known as sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin.

It's important to avoid using the large pumpkins typically sold for carving, as they tend to have more strings and less flesh, which can negatively affect the dessert's texture and taste. 

Sugar

Granulated sugar is the most commonly used sugar in this dessert. It provides a straightforward, classic sweetness to the dessert. You can add 1 or two tablespoons molasses for a richer taste.

Also, you might consider using light brown sugar. It adds a subtle caramel-like flavor and a hint of molasses to the dessert.

Optional Spices

In addition to pumpkin and sugar, you can elevate the flavor of your kabak tatlisi by incorporating aromatic spices. Consider adding a few whole cloves and a cinnamon stick during the cooking process to infuse your dessert with delightful warmth and depth of flavor.  

How to Prepare a Pumpkin

Preparing the pumpkin is a crucial step in making kabak tatlısı. Here's a simple guide on how to do it:

1. Cut the Top Off: Begin by cutting off the top of the pumpkin. This will create an opening that allows you to access the inside easily. You can use a sharp knife to make a clean cut around the stem area.
2. Cut it into Half: After removing the top, cut the pumpkin into two halves. This step makes it more manageable to work with smaller sections of the pumpkin.
3. Scoop Out the Seeds: Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and the stringy flesh from the center of each pumpkin half. You can discard the seeds or save them for roasting as a tasty snack later.
4. Cut it into Wedges: With the seeds removed, cut each pumpkin half into wedges and then slice each in half. You can cut them into thick cubes if the pumpkin flesh is thick enough. The one we used in this recipe was not very thick, so we didn't cube them. 
5. Peel: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skin from each pumpkin slice. 

Tip: It's a good idea to wear disposable gloves when handling and cutting the pumpkin. Some people may experience skin irritation or dryness when in direct contact with pumpkin flesh and seeds.

How To Make The Recipe

You can choose between two methods to make the sweet Turkish pumpkin dessert:

Method 1: Stovetop Cooking

1. Prepare the Pumpkin: First, cut the pumpkin into wedges or cubes and peel them. Place them in a large pot.
2. Add Sugar: Pour sugar evenly over the pumpkin slices. Cover the pot and let them sit for 5-6 hours. During this time, the pumpkin will release its juice.
3. Start Cooking: You can add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves at this step. Put the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to simmer. Cook the pumpkin slices until they are tender but not mushy. The juice will become syrupy as it simmers. Make sure all pumpkin slices are covered with the syrup. This might take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the pumpkin variety.

4. Check for Doneness: After 20 minutes, check the pumpkin's softness with a fork. If it's soft enough, remove it from the heat. If not, continue cooking until it reaches the desired tenderness.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the cooked kabak tatlısı cool completely in the pot before serving.

Method 2: Oven Baking

1. Prepare the Pumpkin: Peel the pumpkin slices and arrange them in a baking pan. It's okay if a few slices overlap.
2. Add Sugar: Sprinkle sugar over the pumpkin slices, making sure each slice gets some sugar. Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and let it sit for 5-6 hours. The pumpkin will release its juice thanks to the sugar.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. Bake: Remove the plastic wrap. If you want, add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves in the pan at this step. Cover the baking pan with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes, depending on the pumpkin variety and slice size. After 30 minutes, check for softness. It should be tender.
5. Cool Down: Allow the baked pumpkin dessert to cool completely before serving.

Tip: Do not transfer it onto a serving plate while it is still hot as it might lose shape. You can even refrigerate it for about 30 minutes after it cools completely and then serve.

Serving Suggestions

In Turkey, kabak tatlisi is often served as a simple yet satisfying dessert on its own or with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or crushed nuts like walnuts or pistachios for added texture and flavor. 

Also, you might see that it is paired with the following: 

Kaymak (Turkish Clotted Cream): The velvety, creamy texture of kaymak complements the sweetness of the dessert and adds a luxurious touch. 

Tahini Swirl: Drizzle it over your pumpkin dessert. The nutty and slightly savory tahini pairs wonderfully with the sweet pumpkin, creating a delightful flavor contrast. 

Ice Cream Topping: Serve it with a scoop of Turkish ice cream. The warm and syrupy dessert pairs beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream.

Yogurt Drizzle: Although it is not a traditional way of serving this dessert, you can put some strained yogurt, known as Greek yogurt or Turkish yogurt on the side. The yogurt's acidity balances the sweetness of the dessert, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. 

Pair with Turkish Tea or Coffee: In Turkey, it's common to enjoy all desserts including this one with a cup of traditional Turkish tea or coffee. 

Expert Tips

Here are some important things to keep in mind when making kabak tatlisi:

1. Choose the Right Pumpkin: While you can use various pumpkin varieties, opt for pumpkins known as "sugar pumpkins" or "pie pumpkins" if you're outside of Turkey. These varieties have the ideal sweetness and texture.
2. Uniform Slices or Cubes: When preparing the pumpkin, aim for uniform slices or cubes. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dessert.
3. Patience is Key: Whether using the stovetop or oven method, patience is essential. Let the pumpkin slices soak in sugar to release their juices.
4. Spices and Flavorings: Feel free to adjust the spices like cloves and cinnamon to your taste. These spices can be subtle or bold, depending on your preference.
5. Taste Test for Doneness: Test the pumpkin's tenderness with a fork. It should be soft but not mushy. Cooking times may vary based on the pumpkin variety, so keep a close eye on it.
6. Cool Before Serving: Allow your pumpkin dessert to cool completely before serving. This helps it set and develop its flavors fully.

Storage

Whether you have leftovers or want to make it in advance, here's how to store this simple yet tasty Turkish dessert:

1. Refrigeration: For short-term storage, place any remaining pumpkin dessert in an airtight container. Seal it tightly to prevent air from entering and refrigerate.
2. Duration: It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, it's best when enjoyed within the first couple of days to maintain its optimal texture and taste.
3. Avoid Freezing: While you can technically freeze the pumpkin dessert, it's not recommended because freezing can alter its texture, making it mushy when thawed.

FAQs

More Turkish Desserts

• Turkish Pistachio Baklava 
• Turkish Rice Pudding In Oven
• Cheesy Kadaif Kunefe
• Turkish Tulumba Dessert

More Pumpkin Recipes

• Boiled Pumpkin Puree
• Pumpkin Jam

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