Gourmet Baklava Is A Rich, Flavorful Pastry

By Beryl Dalton


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 robust, flaky pastry made with layers of phyllo that is unleavened dough. This type of mixture does not include yeast or other baking helpers to rise. The layers are buttered and include honey or syrup mixed with nuts like walnuts, pistachios, pecans, hazelnuts or almonds. Some recipes also add dates, apricots or chocolate chips. The mixture is baked in the oven after being cut into either diamond, square or triangle shapes. After cooling, it can be served with chocolate sauce or a combination of honey, lemon and cinnamon. Many people also prefer it without any sauce.

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 encourage a healthy cardiovascular system and makes teeth and bones stronger. Hazelnuts play a role in regulating the body's calcium levels and also strengthens joints and bones. Pecans reduce high blood pressure, assist muscles in recovering quicker after exertion, and strengthen bones and teeth. Pistachios promote continued health of the eyes, efficient blood flow, stronger immune system and younger looking skin. The antioxidants and omega-3 in walnuts reduce the chance of cancer and heart disease.

The sauce drizzled over this treat also has nutritional properties. Honey improves memory, is a natural energy booster and prevents low white blood cell counts. Lemons are high in vitamin C and promote healthier skin and eyes, and strengthens blood vessels and immune systems. Cinnamon regulates blood sugar and encourages heart health.

The food provided for certain religious holidays and wedding receptions often includes this dish. Rosh Hashanna is a Jewish holiday that serves this pastry. This is a two-day festivity celebrating the existence of Adam and Eve. A light-colored dessert with light-colored nuts is made to symbolize a bright year whereas a dark-colored selection with dark nuts means the opposite. It is also served during Purim, another Jewish holiday. This holiday remembers the Jewish people who escaped death from the royal minister back in the Persian Empire.

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.

Preparing baklava can be tricky and take some time and patience. Purchasing this selection from a bakery that makes this specialty guarantees a pleasing, satisfying experience for special occasions or as a treat. Both kids and adults enjoy this tasty dessert.




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