Ingredients

1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup unsalted pistachios , plus extra , crushed , to garnish
5 tablespoons water
1/2 cup vanilla sugar
1 large egg , separated , white beaten
1 tablespoon lemon zest
12 squares phyllo pastry , cut into 7 1/2in squares
peanut oil ( for frying )
1/2 cup good quality honey
Sweet Filo Cigars is a Middle Eastern dessert that is popular all over the world. It is a pastry made of phyllo dough that is filled with a sweet almond-based filling. The combination of the crispy phyllo dough and chewy almond filling makes for a delightful texture experience. Traditionally deep-fried and served with honey, Sweet Filo Cigars are a perfect end to any meal. They are easy to make and can be served warm or cold, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2.Prepare the filling by heating a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced almonds and unsalted pistachios and cook for 3-4 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally. Stir in the water, vanilla sugar, egg yolk, lemon zest and cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3.Lay a sheet of phyllo pastry on a work surface. Brush lightly with some of the peanut oil and place another sheet on top and brush again.
4.Cut the phyllo sheet lengthways in half. Place 2 heaped tablespoons of almond filling along the end of each pastry strip. Roll up to enclose the filling and fold in the sides to form the cigar shape. Brush the ends of the pastry with some egg white to seal.
5.Heat a pan with the peanut oil over medium heat. Gently fry the cigars in batches, turning, for 2 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel.
6.Heat the honey, stirring frequently until warmed.
7.Drizzle the honey over the cigars, sprinkle with the crushed pistachios and serve warm or at room temperature.

PROS

Sweet Filo Cigars are a perfect balance of sweet and savory that makes a good end to any meal.

They are crispy outside and chewy inside, making for a wonderful texture experience.

It is easy to make and requires minimal clean-up.

CONS

Deep-frying the cigars make them oily and high in calories.

They are not suitable for people who are allergic to nuts.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Sweet Filo Cigars are packed with nutritional benefits as they are made from almonds that are a good source of protein and fiber.
Almonds also contain monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health and lower cholesterol levels.
The lemon zest has antibacterial and antiviral properties that help in boosting the immune system.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.