Unravelling Baklava: A Sweet Journey Through Its Rich History and Layers
When you think about Greek cuisine, one might immediately think of olives, moussaka, and feta cheese. But there’s another culinary gem that stands tall among these – Baklava. This dessert, with its origins as layered as its filo, is a testament to the culinary genius of ancient civilizations.
Origins of Baklava The exact origin of Baklava is not pinned down to one country or culture. Various ancient civilizations had their versions of layered pastries. The Assyrians, for example, were making sweet pastries with nuts between layers of bread as far back as the 8th century BC. The concept of layering thin bread and nuts and sweetening with syrup or honey was not unique to a particular region.
However, the modern Baklava we recognize today was primarily influenced by the culinary traditions of the Ottoman Empire. As the empire expanded, so did the popularity and diversity of Baklava.
The Layers of Artistry Creating the perfect Baklava is no simple feat. It’s an art and a science. The paper-thin layers of filo (or phyllo) dough require utmost precision. Traditionally, the dough was rolled so thinly that a single sheet could cover an entire room!
Between these wafer-thin layers, a mix of finely chopped nuts, usually walnuts or pistachios, is generously sprinkled. Some variations even incorporate cinnamon or cloves to add a distinctive flavour.
Then comes the sweetening agent: honey. While some recipes use sugar syrups infused with lemon or rose water, it’s the rich honey that gives Baklava its iconic sweetness. Once baked to golden perfection, the Baklava is then drenched in this syrup, allowing the layers to soak up the sweetness while retaining a crispy texture.
Baklava at Mezetaki At Mezetaki, our Greek restaurant and deli, we cherish the art of making Baklava. Our recipe carries with it the traditions and love of the Greek culinary spirit. We believe in using the finest ingredients – fresh, crispy filo, high-quality nuts, and the richest honey, to give you an authentic taste of this timeless dessert.
Not just limited to a sweet end after a meal, Baklava pairs brilliantly with a cup of strong coffee or Greek tea, making it a delightful snack any time of the day.
Conclusion: Baklava isn’t just a dessert; it’s a journey through history, cultures, and culinary traditions. Every bite is a meld of ancient practices and modern flavours. Next time you’re at Mezetaki, make sure you try our Baklava – and as you enjoy its sweet, nutty layers, remember the rich tapestry of tales that have gone into creating this delectable treat.
