Indulge in the delightful flavors of Kosovo Bakllava, a traditional Balkan dessert that embodies layers of delicate filo pastry, generously filled with a blend of finely chopped nuts, and soaked in a sweet syrup. This exquisite treat is crafted with precision and care, resulting in a symphony of textures and tastes that captivate the palate. Each bite offers a harmonious combination of crispy filo, rich nuttiness, and a lingering sweetness from the syrup, making Kosovo Bakllava a truly irresistible dessert that reflects the culinary heritage of Kosovo. Perfect for any occasion, savor the authentic essence of Balkan cuisine with every delightful piece of this classic sweet pastry.

Ingredients:

  - 1 package (about 16 oz) of filo dough (phyllo pastry sheets), thawed if frozen 

  - 1 ½ cups of mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios), finely chopped 

  - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted 

  - 1 cup granulated sugar 

  - 1 cup water 

  - 1 tablespoon lemon juice 

  - 1 cinnamon stick 

  - Optional: Cloves or cardamom pods for flavoring (if desired)

Instructions:

Here’s a summary of your Bakllava recipe:

Prepare the Nut Filling:

  - Combine the finely chopped nuts in a bowl and set aside.

Prepare the Syrup:

  - In a saucepan, mix the sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick (and any optional spices).

  - Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

  - Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

  - Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon stick, and let the syrup cool.

Assemble the Bakllava:

  - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  - Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.

  - Unroll the filo dough and cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.

  - Place one sheet of filo in the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with about 8-10 sheets, brushing each layer with butter.

  - Spread a layer of chopped nuts evenly over the filo.

Continue Layering:

  - Add another layer of filo over the nuts, brushing with butter.

  - Continue layering filo and butter until all filo sheets are used, saving a few sheets for the top.

  - Finish with a final layer of filo, brushed generously with melted butter.

Cut and Bake:

  - Cut the bakllava into diamond or square shapes with a sharp knife.

  - Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Pour Syrup Over Bakllava:

  - Immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot bakllava.

  - Allow it to cool completely in the pan to let the syrup soak in.

Serve and Enjoy:

  - Once cooled, lift the pieces out of the pan and arrange on a serving platter.

  - Serve at room temperature and enjoy!

This recipe will yield delicious, crispy, and sweet Bakllava. Enjoy!

This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Kosovo Bakllava, showcasing the perfect balance of crispy filo pastry, flavorful nuts, and sweet syrup—a true delight for dessert lovers! Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of syrup used according to personal preference.

Nutritional Values :

Here's a summary of the approximate nutritional values for each ingredient in the Bakllava recipe and their benefits:

Filo Dough (Phyllo Pastry Sheets) - 16 oz package:

- Calories:1440 kcal

- Total Fat:24 g

 - Saturated Fat:14 g

- Cholesterol:60 mg

- Sodium:1440 mg

- Carbohydrates:264 g

 - Dietary Fiber:12 g

 - Sugars:24 g

- Protein:36 g

Benefits:

- Source of Carbohydrates:Provides energy for the body.

- Low in Fat:Helps keep the calorie content moderate.

- Some Dietary Fiber:Supports digestive health.

Mixed Nuts (Walnuts, Almonds, Pistachios) - 1 ½ cups (approximately 200 g):

- Calories:1200 kcal

- Total Fat:108 g

 - Saturated Fat:10 g

- Sodium:0 mg

- Carbohydrates:36 g

 - Dietary Fiber:18 g

 - Sugars:6 g

- Protein:36 g

Benefits:

- Healthy Fats:Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

- Protein:Provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.

- Vitamins and Minerals:Contains vitamin E, magnesium, and other nutrients important for overall health.

Unsalted Butter - 1 cup (approximately 227 g):

- Calories:1628 kcal

- Total Fat:184 g

 - Saturated Fat:117 g

- Cholesterol:488 mg

- Sodium:24 mg

- Carbohydrates:0 g

- Protein:2 g

Benefits:

- Source of Saturated Fat:Provides energy and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

- Caloric Density:Adds richness and flavor to the dish.

- Contains Vitamin A:Important for vision and skin health.

Granulated Sugar - 1 cup (approximately 200 g):

- Calories:774 kcal

- Total Fat:0 g

- Sodium:2 mg

- Carbohydrates:200 g

 - Sugars:200 g

- Protein:0 g

Benefits:

- Quick Energy:Provides a rapid source of energy.

- Sweet Flavor:Enhances taste and palatability of desserts.

- High Glycemic Index:Raises blood sugar levels rapidly.

Water - 1 cup (approximately 240 ml):

- Calories:0 kcal

- Total Fat:0 g

- Sodium:12 mg

- Carbohydrates:0 g

- Protein:0 g

Benefits:

- Hydration:Essential for overall bodily functions.

- No Calories:Helps maintain fluid balance without adding extra calories.

- Transport Medium:Facilitates nutrient transport and waste removal in the body.

Lemon Juice - 1 tablespoon (approximately 15 ml):

- Calories:3 kcal

- Total Fat:0 g

- Sodium:0 mg

- Carbohydrates:1 g

 - Sugars:0 g

- Protein:0 g

Benefits:

- Vitamin C:Provides antioxidant benefits and supports immune function.

- Adds Flavor:Enhances taste and balances sweetness.

- Acidic Properties:Helps balance flavors and cut through richness.

Cinnamon Stick (for flavoring) - 1 stick (approximately 2-3 g):

- Calories:6 kcal

- Total Fat:0 g

- Sodium:0 mg

- Carbohydrates:2 g

 - Dietary Fiber:1 g

 - Sugars:0 g

- Protein:0 g

Benefits:

- Antioxidant Properties:Contains compounds that may have health benefits.

- Anti-inflammatory Effects:May help reduce inflammation in the body.

- Adds Warmth and Depth of Flavor:Enhances the overall taste experience.

Nutritional Values Disclaimer:

- These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

- Values are based on standard USDA databases and may not account for variations in product formulations or preparation methods.

- Adjustments may be needed based on individual dietary needs and preferences.

Enjoy your Kosovo Bakllava while keeping in mind the nutritional content and portion sizes to fit your dietary requirements.