Eastern Baklava Dessert

 

Baklava is a sweet pastry of finely layered phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup. It is a popular dessert in Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisine, and is often served as a festive treat.

The exact origin of baklava is unknown, but it is thought to have originated in the Byzantine Empire. The first known written reference to baklava dates back to the 11th century. Baklava quickly spread throughout the Middle East and Balkans, and became a popular dessert in many cultures.

Baklava is typically made with phyllo dough, which is a thin, flaky pastry dough. The phyllo dough is layered and filled with chopped nuts, such as pistachios, walnuts, or almonds. The baklava is then baked and drizzled with syrup.

Baklava is a delicious and versatile dessert. It can be served plain or with a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or fruit. Baklava is also a popular ingredient in other desserts, such as baklava cheesecake or baklava ice cream.

Here is a recipe for baklava:

Ingredients:

1 pound phyllo dough

2 cups chopped nuts, such as pistachios, walnuts, or almonds

1 cup melted butter

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Brush a sheet of phyllo dough with melted butter.

Place the phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish.

Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have used all of the phyllo dough.

Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the phyllo dough.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown.

While the baklava is baking, make the syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.

Let the baklava cool completely before serving.

Enjoy!