Overview:
Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a decadent dessert often enjoyed during special occasions in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan countries.
Origin:
Baklava has its origins in the Ottoman Empire and is a staple dessert in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, with variations across different regions.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
Ingredients:
- 500g phyllo dough
- 200g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water
How to Make It:
- Prepare the Filling: Chop the nuts and mix with cinnamon. Set aside.
- Layer the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the phyllo sheets, brushing each sheet with melted butter. Spread the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo, then layer the remaining sheets on top, brushing each with butter.
- Cut and Bake: Cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Syrup: While baking, combine sugar, honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Add rose water or orange blossom water at the end.
- Add the Syrup: Once the baklava is out of the oven, pour the warm syrup over it, ensuring it seeps into all layers.
- Serve: Allow it to cool completely before serving. Baklava is best enjoyed the next day after the flavors have fully melded.
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