Baking Azerbaijani Baklava with Grandma | Country Life In Azerbaijan

walnuts

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: pecans

Almonds are lower in calories and pecans are often less expensive.

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Agave syrup has a lower glycemic index and maple syrup is often cheaper.

rose water

🥗Healthier: orange blossom water

💰Cheaper: vanilla extract

Orange blossom water offers a similar floral note and vanilla is more accessible.

phyllo dough

🥗Healthier: whole wheat phyllo

💰Cheaper: shortcrust pastry

Whole wheat increases fiber, while shortcrust is easier to handle.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Melt 1 cup of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

Layer 10 sheets of phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.

Chop 2 cups of walnuts and mix with 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of cardamom in a bowl.

Spread a layer of the walnut mixture over the phyllo dough.

Continue layering phyllo and walnut mixture until all ingredients are used, finishing with 5 sheets of phyllo on top.

Cut the baklava into diamond shapes with a sharp knife.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

While baking, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla in a saucepan.

Bring the syrup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove baklava from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.

Let the baklava cool completely before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens