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Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with our exquisite Baklava recipe! This delectable layered pastry, renowned for its flaky texture and luscious sweetness, holds a cherished place in Mediterranean cuisine. In this recipe, we'll guide you through creating the perfect Baklava, where layers of phyllo dough and nut filling are soaked in fragrant syrup. Get ready to experience the richness of the Mediterranean and savor a piece of authentic deliciousness.
Ingredients:
For the Baklava Layers:
1 package phyllo dough, thawed according to package instructions
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Nut Filling:
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup honey
1 cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Nut Filling
In a bowl, combine the finely chopped mixed nuts, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, honey, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, and let the syrup cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Baklava
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a baking dish with melted butter. Place a sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat the process, layering phyllo sheets and brushing each layer with butter, until you have about 6-8 layers.
Step 4: Add the Nut Filling
Sprinkle a generous amount of the nut filling over the layered phyllo.
Step 5: Layer and Repeat
Continue layering phyllo sheets and brushing with butter, then adding nut filling, until all the nut mixture is used. Aim for about 6-8 nut-filled layers.
Step 6: Finish with Layers
Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each layer with melted butter.
Step 7: Cut and Bake
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the Baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Soak in Syrup
Once baked, remove the Baklava from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot pastry. Allow the Baklava to cool and absorb the syrup for a few hours or overnight.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Gently separate the Baklava pieces and serve on a platter. Savor the rich and sweet flavors of Baklava, a dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean culinary delight.
Congratulations! You've skillfully created Baklava, a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its flaky layers and nutty sweetness, this pastry offers an authentic taste of tradition and gastronomic indulgence. Share the joy of Baklava with friends and family, and let them experience the rich tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine. Happy cooking and enjoy the delightful journey of Baklava!
