Attican Honey Squares
Attican Honey Squares are a delightful dessert that hail from the ancient culinary traditions of Attica, a historic region of Greece. This sweet treat has its roots in ancient Greek festivals, where honey was a staple ingredient, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Traditionally made with layers of filo pastry, honey, and a medley of nuts, these squares are a testament to the rich flavors and culinary heritage of Greece. Let us dive into the world of Attican Honey Squares, exploring its ingredients, preparation methods, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
- Filo Pastry - 12 sheets
- Unsalted Butter - 200g, melted
- Walnuts - 150g, finely chopped
- Almonds - 150g, finely chopped
- Pistachios - 100g, finely chopped
- Cinnamon - 1 tsp
- Cloves - 1/2 tsp
- Honey - 250g
- Sugar - 100g
- Water - 100ml
- Lemon - 1, juiced
- Orange Zest - from one orange
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Nut Mixture
Start by combining the walnuts, almonds, and pistachios in a large mixing bowl. Add the cinnamon and cloves, mixing everything together thoroughly. This fragrant nut mixture will serve as the crunchy layer in your Attican Honey Squares.
Step 2: Layering the Filo Pastry
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush a rectangular baking dish with some melted unsalted butter. Carefully lay a sheet of filo pastry in the dish, brushing it lightly with butter. Repeat this process until you have used six sheets, each brushed with butter.
Spread half of the nut mixture over the layered filo. Place another sheet of filo pastry on top, butter it, and repeat until you have layered the remaining six sheets of filo, ensuring each is brushed with butter before adding the next.
Step 3: Baking
Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into squares or diamonds as desired. This will make it easier to serve later. Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Cooking Time
Bake the Attican Honey Squares for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For an accurate measurement, set a cooking timer to ensure perfect results.
Step 4: Preparing the Honey Syrup
While the squares are baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the lemon juice and orange zest, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Assembling the Attican Honey Squares
Once the filo pastry is golden and crispy, remove the dish from the oven. Pour the hot honey syrup evenly over the baked layers, making sure it seeps into each cut area and around the edges.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the Attican Honey Squares to cool in the dish, enabling the syrup to infuse the pastry completely. Serve them at room temperature as a delightful conclusion to a Greek-themed meal. Accompany these squares with a side of Greek yogurt or a hot cup of Greek coffee to enhance the authentic taste experience. Enjoy!