Pies

Saffron & Pistachio Baklava

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Saffron & Pistachio Baklava
Aromatic saffron and crunchy pistachios layered in delicate phyllo pastry, drizzled with sweet syrup.

Indulge in a slice of Iranian paradise with our Saffron & Pistachio Baklava recipe. This classic Persian dessert marries the delicate crunch of flaky phyllo pastry with the rich, nutty goodness of pistachios and the exotic aroma of saffron. Each bite is an ode to the artistry and heritage of Persian cuisine, making it a perfect ending to any meal or celebration.

“Baklava: A sweet symphony of flavors that sings the song of Persia.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Servings: 24 pieces
  • Calories: 180kcal per piece

Ingredients

  • Phyllo Pastry: 16 sheets (about 1 pound)
  • Unsalted Butter, melted: 1 cup
  • Sugar: 1 cup
  • Water: 1/2 cup
  • Rose Water or Orange Blossom Water: 1 tablespoon
  • Saffron Threads: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Pistachios, finely chopped: 2 cups
  • Walnuts, finely chopped (optional): 1 cup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Syrup:
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Remove from heat and stir in rose or orange blossom water and saffron threads.
  • Allow the syrup to cool completely.
  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  1. Prepare Phyllo Pastry:
  • Cover phyllo sheets with a damp cloth to prevent drying while working.
  • Brush a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) with melted butter.
  1. Assemble Baklava:
  • Place one sheet of phyllo in the prepared dish, brushing it lightly with butter.
  • Repeat layering with another sheet and more butter, repeating this process until you have used half of your sheets (about 8 layers).
  • Sprinkle a thin layer of pistachios over the top; repeat with walnuts if using.
  • Continue layering remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter, until all are used.
  1. Bake:
  • Cut through the pastry into diamond or square shapes before baking to make serving easier later.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  1. Finish Baklava:
  • Remove from oven and immediately pour cooled syrup over hot baklava, allowing it to soak in completely.
  • Let it sit at room temperature for several hours before serving to ensure the flavors meld together.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:

  • Serving: 1 piece
  • Calories: 180kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 9g (includes saturated fat)
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 12g

Serve this Saffron & Pistachio Baklava as a sweet finale to any gathering, offering guests a taste of Persian tradition. It’s imperative to allow ample time for the flavors to meld before serving.

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