Welcome Lykkers! Pembe Sultan is a visually striking and delicious Turkish dessert known for its vibrant pink hue and creamy texture.

This dessert is a favorite at special gatherings, celebrations, and tea time, loved for its refreshing flavor and elegant visual. Combining the richness of milk with the subtle sweetness of fruits, it’s a treat that’s both easy to make and to impress.

Ingredients for Pembe Sultan

To prepare Pembe Sultan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the dessert base:

1 liter of milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of semolina, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

For the pink layer:

1 cup of strawberries (or raspberries), 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar (adjust to taste), 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening).

For the topping (optional):

Grated coconut, Chopped pistachios or almonds, Fresh strawberries or raspberries.

How to Make Pembe Sultan?

Step 1: Prepare the Dessert Base

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine milk, semolina, and sugar.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency.

3. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Pink Layer

1. Blend strawberries or raspberries into a smooth puree.

2. Add powdered sugar to the puree, mixing until well combined.

3. (Optional) If the puree is too thin, heat it in a small saucepan and mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in a little water. Cook until it thickens.

Step 3: Layer the Dessert

1. Pour half of the semolina mixture into a serving dish or individual cups as the first layer.

2. Spread the pink fruit layer evenly on top.

3. Pour the remaining semolina mixture over the fruit layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Step 4: Decorate and Chill

1. Sprinkle grated coconut, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit on top for decoration.

2. Let the dessert cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to set completely.

Serving Suggestions

Pembe Sultan is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert option, especially during the warmer months. Serve it in glass cups to highlight its beautiful layers or slice it into squares for a more traditional presentation.

Pair it with Turkish tea or coffee for an authentic culinary experience.

Healthier Version

It combines yogurt and fruits with a touch of beetroot for natural color. Here's a healthy recipe:

Ingredients

2 cups plain yogurt (preferably low-fat or Greek yogurt), 1 medium beetroot (cooked and peeled), 2 tbsp honey or natural sweetener of your choice, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup mixed fruits (e.g., pomegranate seeds, chopped strawberries, or raspberries), 2 tbsp crushed walnuts or pistachios (optional for garnish), Mint leaves (optional for decoration)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beetroot:

Grate the cooked beetroot or blend it into a smooth puree using a food processor.

2. Mix the Yogurt Base:

In a bowl, combine yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Adjust sweetness to your preference.

3. Add Color:

Gently fold in the beetroot puree until the yogurt turns a beautiful pink color.

4. Layer the Dessert:

In serving glasses, layer the pink yogurt with mixed fruits. Start with yogurt, then add a layer of fruits, and repeat until the glass is full.

5. Garnish:

Sprinkle crushed nuts on top for added crunch and garnish with mint leaves.

6. Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing and cool dessert.

Tips

Replace honey with agave syrup or stevia for a lower-calorie option.

For a creamier texture, you can blend yogurt and beetroot together.

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea.

Variations

Fruit Choices: While strawberries or raspberries are the most popular choices, you can experiment with other fruits like cherries or pomegranates for the pink layer.

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk for a lactose-free version.

Layering Style: For a more dramatic effect, alternate multiple layers of semolina and fruit puree.

Pembe Sultan is a dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Its vibrant color and creamy texture make it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to try something new, this Turkish dessert is sure to become a favorite.