Baklava, the golden, flaky pastry dripping with honey and layered with finely chopped nuts, is one of the most celebrated desserts across the globe. Its rich flavors and delicate textures have made it a staple at celebrations, gatherings, and dessert tables worldwide. But where did this delicious dessert originate, and how is it made today? Your favorite restaurant in Amherst, NH, is here to dive into the fascinating history and art of baklava-making!

A Sweet History

Baklava’s exact origins are debated, but its story likely begins in the Ottoman Empire, where the dessert was perfected in imperial kitchens during the 15th and 16th centuries. Earlier versions date to the Assyrians in the 8th century BCE, who layered flatbread with nuts and honey. Over time, influences from Byzantine and Arab cultures enriched the recipe, introducing spices and techniques that shaped its modern form.

From Turkey, baklava spread to Greece and other regions, where the use of phyllo (or “filo”) dough became a defining feature. Today, baklava is a cherished dessert in Turkish, Greek, Middle Eastern, and Balkan cuisines, with each culture adding its own unique twist.

How Baklava is Made

Making baklava is both an art and a labor of love. Traditional recipes are often passed down through generations, with slight variations to suit regional tastes. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Ingredients: The basic ingredients include phyllo dough, butter, nuts (such as pistachios, walnuts, or almonds), sugar, and honey or syrup.
2. Preparation: Layers of phyllo dough are carefully brushed with melted butter and stacked in a baking pan. Every few layers, a generous sprinkle of finely chopped nuts is added.
3. Baking: Once all the layers are assembled, the baklava is cut into diamond or square shapes and baked until golden and crispy.
4. Syrup: While the baklava bakes, a syrup made from honey, sugar, lemon juice, and sometimes rose or orange blossom water is prepared. The hot syrup is poured over the freshly baked pastry, allowing it to soak into the layers.
5. Finishing Touches: The dessert is often garnished with a dusting of ground nuts or a drizzle of chocolate.

Fun Facts About Baklava

• Royal Origins: Baklava was considered a dessert fit for royalty in the Ottoman Empire and was often served to the sultan and his court.
• National Pride: Many countries claim baklava as their own, including Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon. In 2013, Turkey registered baklava as a protected cultural product with the European Union.
• Record-Breaking Dessert: The largest baklava ever made weighed over 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) and was created in Turkey in 2010.
• Holiday Treat: Baklava is commonly served during religious and cultural celebrations, such as Ramadan, Easter, and Christmas.

Visit Your Favorite Restaurant in Amherst, NH, Bentley’s Roast Beef!

What are you craving for dinner? Rest assured that we have plenty of delicious options here at your favorite restaurant in Amherst, NH! To explore all of our menu items, we encourage you to check out our online menu or stop in and dine with us today!

Check us out on Facebook for the latest news!