Celebrate World Baklava Day with History & Sweet Traditions
Discover Baklava's rich history, celebrate its global traditions, and learn how to prepare this luxurious dessert.
Many believe that baklava is of Turkish origin! However, many countries around the world prepare baklava in their own way. Baklava is considered a luxurious dessert served on various special occasions. It is distinguished by its delicious taste and is made of layers of phyllo dough filled with pistachios. On World Baklava Day... learn about its history and ways to celebrate it.
World Baklava Day History
The origins of baklava are as varied as any other dessert, and while its primary homeland remains a topic of debate, ancient culinary historians agree that baklava has ancient roots. The history of baklava serves as a testimony to the interconnectedness of cultures in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Its evolution reflects centuries of cultural exchange and culinary innovation, according to Dr. Amira Hassan, a food historian specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.
The earliest known recipe for baklava dates back to the second century BCE in Rome. However, the baklava that we prepare today took shape during the Ottoman Empire, where it was crafted in the kitchens of Topkapi Palace in Turkey. It is therefore widely popular there, to the extent that Turkey is often considered the original homeland of baklava.
A global day has been established to celebrate baklava, on the 17th of November each year. Baklava is a delicious dessert loved by everyone and is celebrated in many different ways.
Ways to Celebrate World Baklava Day
In general, ready-made baklava is consumed from shops specializing in preparing oriental desserts. World Baklava Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate baklava as an exquisite dessert loved by everyone. Below are some ways to celebrate World Baklava Day.
Exploring Baklava Traditions
Baklava is one of the oriental desserts that was once served exclusively to the wealthy class! Today, it has become a popular sweet enjoyed by everyone. Baklava is served in various countries like Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece, especially during occasions and festivals, and it comes in many forms. On Baklava Day, choose one of the traditions from these countries and enjoy it. For example, Muslims in the Balkans prepare baklava during Ramadan, while Christians in the same region make it for Easter and Christmas!
Eating or Preparing Baklava
One of the most enjoyable ways to celebrate World Baklava Day is by eating or preparing baklava at home. Find a recipe that suits you based on the ingredients you have and try making it at home. Alternatively, visit the nearest pastry shop and enjoy baklava in its different forms on this special day.
Learning Baklava Etiquette
If you are a baklava lover, join us on World Baklava Day to learn the etiquette of eating baklava! Admire the beauty of the layers of baklava served to you, try eating it with a fork so that one-third of the piece is behind the fork and the other two-thirds are in front without letting it split. Eat baklava slowly and enjoy the amazing taste, making sure not to cut the layers!
Steps to Prepare the Most Delicious Baklava
If you have decided to prepare baklava at home, regardless of the chosen recipe, there are 5 main steps you must follow to achieve the best result. Learn about them here.
- Find a suitable phyllo dough. Use store-bought phyllo dough, as baklava consists of many layers.
- Place a layer of phyllo dough in a large baking dish, brush it with butter, add another layer of phyllo, and brush it with butter as well. Repeating this step is essential.
- Add a layer of finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, and others. The harmony between the butter-coated phyllo layers and the nuts is crucial.
- When all the layers are in place, cut the baklava into individual pieces before baking; a parallelogram shape works well.
- Bake the baklava at 180°C for 30 minutes, until it turns light golden brown.
- Pour honey or sugar syrup over the baklava while it"s still hot. This is important. Also, allow it to soak for a few minutes before serving.
- Bake at 180°F for approximately 30 minutes until it turns light brown. While still hot, generously pour honey or syrup over the entire tray, let it soak into all the layers, and try to wait until it cools slightly before eating.