Saturday, February 14, 2015

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.

It is a high calorie food, but it is also a healthy dessert thanks to the nuts inside. All nuts are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein and calcium. They also cause positive changes to good and bad 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.

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 tasty baked good is often offered at wedding receptions and on religious holidays. Those celebrating the Jewish holidays Purim and Rosh Hashanna share this dish. Purim celebrates the escape from death of the Jewish people from the king's royal minister in the Persian Empire. Rosh Hashanna is a two-day event commemorating Adam and Eve's creation. This treat made with nuts that are light in color are used to signify a year that will be good. Nuts like walnuts that are dark in color are not used since this foretells a bad year in the future.

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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