• 1 pound phyllo dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup ground pistachios
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Serving Size: Serves 12-16
• Prep Time: 30-40 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: Approximately 1hr 25 mins
Image by @thekitchenmccabe
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water for about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the ground pistachios, sugar, and ground cardamom together.
4. Begin layering the phyllo dough in a 9x13-inch baking dish, ensuring that each layer is brushed with melted butter. Reserve approximately eight sheets of phyllo to use for the top layer
5. Once approximately eight layers of phyllo dough have been assembled, evenly distribute half of the pistachio mixture over the top. Continue the process by adding another eight layers of phyllo, followed by the remaining pistachio mixture.
6. Top the baklava with the remaining 8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each one with butter before adding the next.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, making sure to slice through all layers down to the bottom of the dish.
8. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and stir in the saffron water. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes, then pour the syrup evenly over the baklava.
9. Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
10. Allow the baklava to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. For optimal results, let it cool overnight to ensure the flavours meld and the syrup is fully absorbed by the layers.
Image by @thekitchenmccabe
Image by @thekitchenmccabe
Savor the exquisite taste of saffron and pistachio baklava, a delightful variation of the traditional Middle Eastern delicacy. Flaky, golden layers of phyllo dough are filled with a fragrant blend of chopped pistachios, enriched with the warm, heady flavor of saffron. Each bite is soaked in a rich honey-saffron syrup, achieving the ideal balance of sweetness and texture. This sophisticated dessert is ideal for indulging at special occasions or enjoying as a decadent treat in the comfort of home.
Saffron and pistachio baklava is a dessert steeped in the rich traditions of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean culture, often served during celebrations such as weddings, Eid, and family gatherings. The combination of saffron and pistachios not only enriches the flavour profile but also carries cultural meaning, with saffron representing prosperity. Customize this recipe with various nuts like almonds or walnuts, or incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique touch while respecting its traditional roots. Often enjoyed with a strong coffee or tea to balance its sweetness,, making it an ideal treat to share with loved ones.
Storage Instructions: Baklava can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or even frozen for up to 3 months.
