Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo (or phyllo) dough, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a dessert that's commonly associated with the cuisines of the Middle East and the broader Mediterranean region, including Turkish and Middle...
** What is "Baklava"
Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo (or phyllo) dough, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a dessert that's commonly associated with the cuisines of the Middle East and the broader Mediterranean region, including Turkish and Middle Eastern cultures.
Basic Components of Baklava:
Filo (Phyllo) Dough:
This is a very thin, unleavened dough that's used for pastries in Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisines. When baked, it becomes crispy and flaky.
Nuts:
The choice of nuts can vary based on region and preference but commonly includes walnuts, pistachios, almonds, or a combination of these.
Sweetening Syrup or Honey:
After baking the
baklava, a sweet syrup (often made from sugar, water, and sometimes spices or citrus) or honey is poured over the top, allowing the pastry layers to soak it up.
Butter or Oil:
This is brushed between the layers of filo dough before baking, adding to the richness of the dessert and helping achieve a golden, crispy finish.
Process:
Multiple layers of filo dough are laid in a baking dish, each brushed with melted butter or oil.
A mixture of finely chopped nuts and spices (like cinnamon or cardamom) is spread over the dough.
More layers of dough are added on top, followed by more nuts, until the desired thickness is achieved.
The assembled layers are then cut into squares or diamonds before baking.
After baking, while still hot, the syrup or honey is poured over the baklava to sweeten and moisten it.
Regional Variations:
Turkish Baklava:
Often made with a mix of walnuts and pistachios and sweetened with a simple syrup. The layers might be rolled into a cylindrical shape in some versions.
Middle Eastern (e.g., Lebanese) Baklava:
Frequently made with pistachios and sometimes includes rose water or orange blossom water in the syrup for added fragrance.
Baklava is often served during special occasions and celebrations. Given its rich taste and sweetness, a small piece is usually sufficient to satisfy one's sweet cravings.
Coord. Chef Ahmet ÖZDEMİR
International And Intercontinental
Restaurant Consultant and Kitchen Consultant
World Ambassador of Ottoman and Turkish Cuisine