Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It is a popular dessert in Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Mediterranean cuisine. The origin of baklava is widely debated, with claims of its invention by various cultures, including the Greeks, Turks, and Arabs.
The traditional recipe for baklava calls for layers of phyllo dough, which are brushed with melted butter and layered with a mixture of chopped nuts, such as pistachios, walnuts, or almonds. The baklava is then baked until golden brown and crisp, and finally, it is soaked in a sweet syrup made with sugar, water, and flavored with lemon juice, cinnamon, and sometimes, rose water.
Baklava is often served as a dessert after a meal, but it can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack. It is typically cut into small diamond-shaped pieces and served with a cup of tea or coffee.
There are many variations of baklava, including fillings with chocolate, fruit, and cream, and different types of syrup, such as honey or wine-based. Regardless of the variations, baklava remains a beloved dessert enjoyed by people around the world.