Countries throughout the world have served baklava for centuries. Royal families in Istanbul were served this delicious pastry countless centuries ago by their bakers. The first recipe appeared in Turkish cookbooks in early 14th century. It is often mistaken for a Greek dessert since it is similar to other Greek desserts. Its actual history dates back to Middle Eastern, Turkish and Arabic origins. Bakeries located in San Diego, CA now specialize in making a variety of gourmet baklava.
Baklava is a flavorful, flaky dish made from numerous layers of unleavened dough. This dough, called phyllo, does not consist of yeast or baking aids to to rise. Thin, buttered layers hold hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans or walnuts combined with honey although syrup can be used instead. Apricots, dates or chocolate chips can also be included if desired. The dough is made into square, triangle or diamond shapes before baking in the oven. It is served either plain, with melted chocolate or honey mixed with lemon and cinnamon.
This pastry has a high calorie count, but the nuts used provide numerous health benefits. All types of nuts provide calcium, protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins. They are also responsible for decreasing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol levels.
Almonds strengthen the heart, bones and teeth. Hazelnuts help maintain needed calcium levels and make stronger bones and joints. Pecans also have a positive effect on teeth and bones, decrease hypertension, and strengthen muscles so it is not so painful after exercise. Pistachios assist with vision, healthier blood and skin and strengthen the immune system. Walnuts reduce the risk of heart attacks and cancer and include omega-3 and many antioxidants.
In addition to the nuts, the sauce that it is served with is also beneficial to the body. Honey provides natural energy, maintains proper white blood cell levels and improves memory. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, encourage healthy eyes and skin and strengthens immune systems and blood vessels. Cinnamon promotes a healthy heart and cardiovascular system and manages blood sugar levels.
This delicious pastry is often served at wedding receptions and various religious holidays. Rosh Hashanna and Purim are Jewish holidays. The former is a two-day celebration for the creation of Adam and Eve. Serving a light-colored selection and nuts signals a good upcoming year whereas using dark-colored nuts like walnuts symbolizes a bad upcoming year. The latter Jewish holiday celebrates the Jewish people who were not killed in the Persian Empire by the royal minister to the king.
This pastry is also included in the month-long Muslim celebration of Ramadan. Those involved in this time of fasting strive to improve their spirituality, self control and charity work. This dessert is also offered during the Christian holidays remembering Jesus Christ at Easter and Christmas.
It takes time, patience and a good recipe to make this delicious recipe. Going to a bakery and buying what they have perfected promises a delightful and pleasing experience. Adults and children of all ages enjoy this dish on holidays or any other time.
Baklava is a flavorful, flaky dish made from numerous layers of unleavened dough. This dough, called phyllo, does not consist of yeast or baking aids to to rise. Thin, buttered layers hold hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans or walnuts combined with honey although syrup can be used instead. Apricots, dates or chocolate chips can also be included if desired. The dough is made into square, triangle or diamond shapes before baking in the oven. It is served either plain, with melted chocolate or honey mixed with lemon and cinnamon.
This pastry has a high calorie count, but the nuts used provide numerous health benefits. All types of nuts provide calcium, protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins. They are also responsible for decreasing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol levels.
Almonds strengthen the heart, bones and teeth. Hazelnuts help maintain needed calcium levels and make stronger bones and joints. Pecans also have a positive effect on teeth and bones, decrease hypertension, and strengthen muscles so it is not so painful after exercise. Pistachios assist with vision, healthier blood and skin and strengthen the immune system. Walnuts reduce the risk of heart attacks and cancer and include omega-3 and many antioxidants.
In addition to the nuts, the sauce that it is served with is also beneficial to the body. Honey provides natural energy, maintains proper white blood cell levels and improves memory. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, encourage healthy eyes and skin and strengthens immune systems and blood vessels. Cinnamon promotes a healthy heart and cardiovascular system and manages blood sugar levels.
This delicious pastry is often served at wedding receptions and various religious holidays. Rosh Hashanna and Purim are Jewish holidays. The former is a two-day celebration for the creation of Adam and Eve. Serving a light-colored selection and nuts signals a good upcoming year whereas using dark-colored nuts like walnuts symbolizes a bad upcoming year. The latter Jewish holiday celebrates the Jewish people who were not killed in the Persian Empire by the royal minister to the king.
This pastry is also included in the month-long Muslim celebration of Ramadan. Those involved in this time of fasting strive to improve their spirituality, self control and charity work. This dessert is also offered during the Christian holidays remembering Jesus Christ at Easter and Christmas.
It takes time, patience and a good recipe to make this delicious recipe. Going to a bakery and buying what they have perfected promises a delightful and pleasing experience. Adults and children of all ages enjoy this dish on holidays or any other time.
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