Ingredients

1 lb walnuts , chopped fine
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 1/4 cups butter , melted
24 sheets phyllo dough
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon lemon peel
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick
Baklava is a sweet pastry that is popular in many countries, including Greece. It is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. The history of Baklava dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was first made. Today, it is enjoyed all over the world and has many variations depending on the region. Greek Baklava is typically made with walnuts, cinnamon, and honey, which give it a unique flavor that is perfect for dessert or as a special treat. While it is not the healthiest dessert option, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and 1 cup of sugar.
3.Grease a 9x13 inch (22x33 cm) baking dish with melted butter.
4.Unwrap the phyllo dough and layer 6 sheets on the bottom of the dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
5.Sprinkle 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the phyllo dough.
6.Layer 6 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter.
7.Sprinkle another 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the phyllo dough.
8.Layer the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter.
9.Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the phyllo dough.
10.Cut the pastry into diamond-shaped pieces using a sharp knife.
11.Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
12.While the pastry is baking, make the spiced syrup. In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of sugar, honey, lemon peel, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13.Remove the cinnamon stick from the syrup.
14.When the pastry is done, remove it from the oven and spoon the warm syrup over the pastry. Let it cool completely before serving.

PROS

Baklava is a deliciously sweet pastry that is perfect for dessert or as a special treat.

The combination of walnuts, cinnamon, and honey make this a unique and flavorful dessert.

CONS

Baklava is a high-calorie pastry that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

It also contains a high amount of sugar and fat from the butter and honey.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While not the healthiest dessert option, Baklava does contain some health benefits.
Walnuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while cinnamon has been linked to lowering blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation. Honey, in moderation, can provide antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.

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