Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup honey
3/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cinnamon sticks
1 strip lemon zest
2 pinches ground cloves
2 pinches ground cardamom
3/4 lb walnuts , chopped
1/4 lb almonds , slivered
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
1 lb phyllo dough , leaves ( thawed in refrigerator 24 hours )
Baklava is a popular dessert in many countries, including Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. This sweet and indulgent dish is made with layers of phyllo dough, butter, and a mixture of chopped nuts, cinnamon, and honey syrup. The exact origin of baklava is unclear, but it is believed to date back to the Byzantine Empire, and it has been enjoyed by people for centuries. Baklava is often served during special occasions like weddings, holidays, and family gatherings as a symbol of generosity and hospitality. It is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, lemon zest, ground cloves and ground cardamom. Cook over medium heat and stir occasionally until sugar has dissolved.
3.Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the syrup thickens.
4.Remove from the heat and let it cool. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon zest.
5.In a large bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, slivered almonds, ground cinnamon and salt.
6.Melt the butter. Unroll the thawed phyllo dough and cover with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Using a pastry brush, coat a 9x13 inch baking pan with the melted butter.
7.Lay one sheet of the phyllo dough in the bottom of the pan. Brush with melted butter generously. Continue layering the phyllo dough, brushing butter between each layer, for about 10 sheets.
8.Using half of the nut mixture, sprinkle an even layer of nuts over the top of the phyllo dough in the pan.
9.Lay another 10 sheets of phyllo dough on top of the nut mixture, brushing butter between each layer.
10.Layer the remaining nut mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.
11.Top the nuts with another 10 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing butter between each layer. Brush the top with butter.
12.Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond shapes.
13.Bake the baklava until golden brown, about 45-50 minutes.
14.Remove from the oven and pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
15.Let the baklava rest at room temperature for at least 4 hours before cutting and serving.

PROS

Baklava is a delicious and unique dessert that is perfect for special occasions and gatherings.

It has a crispy and flaky texture with a sweet honey flavor, combined with the richness of the nuts.

The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a beautiful and impressive dessert to serve your guests.

CONS

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

The preparation process can be time-consuming, especially when working with the phyllo dough, which can be delicate and challenging to handle.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although baklava is not particularly healthy, it does have some nutritional benefits.
The nuts used in the recipe are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium.
Honey is also a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties.

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