Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Gourmet Baklava Is A Rich, Sweet Treat

By Beryl Dalton


Many countries worldwide have enjoyed baklava for hundreds of years. Rulers in Istanbul have been treated with this rich pastry by their royal bakers for centuries. Turkish cookbooks first mentioned this recipe in the 14th century. Many think this is a Greek dish and mistake it for similar desserts from that country. However, the origins of this dessert have been found in the Middle East, Turkey and Arabia. San Diego, CA now have bakeries that have perfected making 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.

Although it is high in calories, the nuts used have many health benefits. All nuts are high in protein, calcium, fiber, vitamins and minerals. They also play an important role in lowering bad cholesterol and raising good cholesterol.

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 is a common dish served during Ramadan. This is a Muslim observance that consists of fasting for thirty days. During this time, Muslims increase their spiritual devotion and prayer time. They strive to become less self-absorbed by helping others. Christians also serve this dessert at Easter and Christmas while celebrating the resurrection and birth of Jesus.

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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