Ankara Breeze Baklava

Introduction to Ankara Breeze Baklava

Ankara Breeze Baklava is a delightful twist on the traditional Turkish dessert, baklava, that incorporates unique flavors from the capital city of Turkey, Ankara. Originating in the kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. The texture and sweetness of baklava have made it an enduring dessert, loved by many across the world.

The Ankara variation of this sumptuous dessert is noted for its fragrant use of oranges and roses, bringing a fresh and floral twist that is reminiscent of the breezy, aromatic streets of the Turkish capital. Traditionally served during festive occasions, Ankara Breeze Baklava represents the harmony of history and innovation in culinary art.

Ingredients for Ankara Breeze Baklava

• Phyllo dough (1 package, thawed)
• Butter (2 cups, melted)
• Walnuts (2 cups, finely chopped)
• Pistachios (1 cup, finely chopped)
• Oranges (2, zested)
• Sugar (1.5 cups)
• Water (1 cup)
• Honey (1 cup)
• Rosewater (1 tablespoon)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Cloves (1/4 teaspoon, crushed)
• Lemon (1, juiced)

Preparation

Before starting with the preparation, ensure you have a clean working space. You will need a rectangular baking pan, a sharp knife, a saucepan, a pastry brush, and a food processor for chopping the nuts if needed.

Step-by-step Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut the sheets to fit your baking pan. Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
3. In a large bowl, mix the walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest for the filling.
4. Brush the bottom of the baking pan with butter. Place a sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush with butter. Repeat with 5 more layers, brushing each with butter.
5. Evenly spread about a cup of the nut mixture over the phyllo layers.
6. Top with 6 more phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter.
7. Repeat this process, layering nut mixture and phyllo until all nuts are used up.
8. Finish with 8-10 layers of buttered phyllo on top.
9. With a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into diamonds or squares.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and crisp.

Creating the Syrup

While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup.

1. Combine sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Add lemon juice and a tablespoon of rosewater.
3. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. Once the baklava is done, remove from the oven and immediately spoon the cooled syrup over it. Let the baklava absorb the syrup fully.

Serving and Enjoyment

Allow the Ankara Breeze Baklava to cool to room temperature before serving. This process will help it absorb the syrup completely, enhancing its flavor and texture.

This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Turkish tea or coffee. For an authentic experience, serve with a sprinkle of additional pistachios or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoying Ankara Breeze Baklava

Ankara Breeze Baklava is best enjoyed in the company of friends and family, given its deeper cultural significance and sharing spirit. The blend of floral and nutty flavors is a gastronomic representation of both tradition and contemporary tastes of Ankara.

Embrace the rich history and unique flavors packed into every bite of this exquisite dessert.

Tips for Storing Baklava

Store your Ankara Breeze Baklava at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks, ensuring to bring it to room temperature before serving.