Baklava

Baklava with Nuts and Rose Water - A Fragrant Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

I invite you to embark on a journey together in preparing a delicious cake, full of flavor and texture, known as baklava. This recipe has its origins in ancient culinary traditions, where sweets were made with walnut kernels, honey, and thin sheets, served on holidays or at various special events. With a rich history, baklava has evolved over time, but its charm remains unchanged.

Your ingredients for this quick dessert are simple, but let's see how we can transform these ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients

- 3 sheets of puff pastry (preferably high quality)
- 800 g walnut kernels (you can also use hazelnuts or pistachios for a different variant)
- 200 g butter (melted, for a rich taste)
- 250 g brown sugar (for a deeper flavor and a caramel note)
- 200 ml water
- ½ cup rose water (for an unmistakable fragrance)

Necessary Utensils

- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
- Small saucepan
- Kitchen brush

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Tray: Start by lining the baking tray with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cake from sticking and make cleanup easier after baking.

2. Puff Pastry Sheet: Place the first sheet of puff pastry in the tray. Use the brush to evenly coat the sheet with melted butter. This step is essential for achieving a crispy and golden texture.

3. Nut Layer: Sprinkle a generous layer of ground walnut kernels over the puff pastry sheet. Don’t hesitate to use more than the indicated amount; the nuts add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture.

4. Continuing the Layers: Place the second sheet of puff pastry, brush again with butter, add another layer of nuts, and repeat the process with the last sheet of puff pastry. Make sure each sheet is well buttered, and the nuts are evenly distributed.

5. Cutting the Baklava: Use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into square or diamond-shaped pieces. This step will not only ease serving but will also allow the syrup to penetrate better into the cake after baking.

6. Drizzling with Butter: Pour the remaining (melted and hot) butter over the baklava, ensuring that each piece is well covered.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven at 160°C-170°C (low heat) and let it bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the baklava is golden and crispy.

8. Preparing the Syrup: While the baklava is baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, add 200 ml of water and 250 g of brown sugar. Boil the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves. After it comes to a boil, add ½ cup of rose water and let it boil for another minute. Turning off the heat will allow the flavors to combine, resulting in a delicious syrup.

9. Finalizing: Once the baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the hot syrup over it. Let it absorb the syrup for a few hours, ideally overnight, to intensify the flavors.

Useful Tips

- Choosing Nuts: If you desire a more intense flavor, you can roast the walnut kernels before using them. This step will enhance the flavor and add a crunchy note.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or olive oil for a healthier variant.
- Ideal Serving: You can serve baklava alongside a cup of mint tea or Turkish coffee, thus enhancing the sweet flavors of the dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

Baklava is a good source of healthy fats due to the nuts, which are rich in omega-3 and antioxidants. The nuts contribute to heart health and can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. However, due to the sugar and butter content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of nuts? Yes, you can experiment with hazelnuts or pistachios, each variant offering a distinct flavor.
- How long can baklava be stored? Baklava stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If kept in the fridge, it can last up to a week.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, you can freeze baklava, but it is recommended to unwrap it and let it thaw at room temperature before consuming.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite of this aromatic dessert. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, baklava is always a winning choice. Enjoy!