Orašnica is a traditional Bosnian pastry made with thin layers of phyllo dough filled with a mixture of ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. The dough is brushed with melted butter to keep it soft and moist during baking, creating a rich, nutty treat. Often served during special occasions like weddings, birthdays, and religious holidays, Orašnica is a symbol of joy and celebration in Bosnian culture.
The recipe has its roots in the Ottoman era, and over generations, it has become a cherished part of Bosnian culinary heritage. While walnuts are the traditional choice, other nuts like almonds or pistachios can be used as variations.
Warning: This recipe contains walnuts and butter, so it is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies, lactose intolerance, or those with high cholesterol, heart disease, or diabetes. Please consult with a healthcare provider before consuming.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (typically 16 oz, thawed if frozen)
- 3 cups ground walnuts (you can substitute with other nuts like pistachios or almonds for variation)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (can adjust based on desired sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional: you can try nutmeg for a different flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (you can substitute with almond extract for a different taste)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (can substitute with ghee or vegetable oil if preferred)
- 1 cup water
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey or syrup (for a sweet glaze)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the Walnut Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or spice if needed.
3. Melt the Butter: Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish. Stir occasionally until fully melted and set aside.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (or similar sized) baking dish with melted butter, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
5. Layer the Phyllo Dough: Unroll the phyllo dough and, if necessary, trim the sheets to fit the size of your baking dish.
- Pro tip: Phyllo dough can be delicate, so cover it with a damp kitchen towel while working to prevent it from drying out.
6. Build the First Layer: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish. Brush it generously with the melted butter, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Repeat this process for 8-10 sheets, layering each one with butter in between.
- Tip: For a crispier texture, you can brush each layer with more butter, but be mindful not to saturate the dough too much.
7. Add the Walnut Filling: Once you have used about half of the phyllo dough (around 8-10 sheets), spread the walnut mixture evenly over the dough.
- Tip: Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the walnut filling into an even layer for the best results.
8. Complete the Layering: Continue layering the remaining sheets of phyllo dough, again brushing each sheet with melted butter, until all of the phyllo dough is used up. You should have 8-10 more layers.
9. Cut the Pastry: Before baking, carefully cut the pastry into diamond or square shapes using a sharp knife. This will make it easier to serve later.
10. Pour Over Butter and Water: In a small bowl, combine the remaining melted butter with 1 cup of water (and honey/syrup if you like). Pour this mixture evenly over the entire dish, making sure the butter and water soak into the layers.
11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
12. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to firm up and makes it easier to cut.
- Tip: If you used honey or syrup in the water/butter mixture, it will create a glossy finish on top of the Bosnia Orašnica.
Notes:
- Phyllo Dough Care: Phyllo dough dries out quickly. To keep the sheets moist while working with them, cover the unused dough with a damp cloth or paper towel.
- Storage: Bosnia Orašnica can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
- Customizations: Adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon according to your taste. For a more intense flavor, you could add finely ground cardamom or a pinch of ground cloves to the walnut mixture.
- Alternative Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts (such as pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts) or add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for additional texture and flavor.
Nutrition Value:
1. Package of Phyllo Dough (typically 16 oz, thawed if frozen)
- Calories: 230-250 per serving (1 sheet of dough)
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 13g
- Sodium: 50-70mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Phyllo dough is low in cholesterol and fat when compared to puff pastry. However, it doesn't offer significant amounts of vitamins and minerals. Its primary benefit is its light texture, which makes it a great base for various dishes like baklava.
- Warning: Contains little to no nutrients aside from calories, carbohydrates, and a small amount of minerals.
2. Ground Walnuts (3 cups)
- Calories: 200-210 per 1 oz (about 1/4 cup)
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g (mostly healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids)
- Sodium: 0-1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin E, and contains B vitamins, including folate
- Minerals: High in magnesium, copper, manganese, and phosphorus
- Nutritional Benefit: Walnuts are a highly nutritious ingredient, rich in healthy fats (omega-3s), protein, and minerals such as magnesium and copper. These fats are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Warning: None, as walnuts are packed with essential nutrients.
3. Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
- Calories: 774 per cup
- Carbohydrates: 200g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: No significant vitamins
- Minerals: No significant minerals
- Nutritional Benefit: Sugar provides quick energy in the form of carbohydrates, but it has no other nutritional value.
- Warning: Consuming too much sugar can contribute to weight gain, increase the risk of heart disease, and other metabolic conditions. Use sparingly for sweetness.
4. Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp)
- Calories: 6 per tsp
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K
- Minerals: Rich in manganese, calcium, iron, and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Cinnamon is an antioxidant-rich spice that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It's a great addition for its flavor and health benefits.
- Warning: None, as cinnamon provides beneficial compounds in small amounts.
5. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
- Calories: 12 per tsp
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Trace amounts of vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Minerals: Trace amounts of potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: While it doesn’t provide substantial vitamins or minerals, vanilla extract adds a rich flavor and may have some antioxidant properties.
- Warning: None, but avoid excessive consumption due to the alcohol content.
6. Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted)
- Calories: 810 per cup
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 92g (mostly saturated fat)
- Sodium: 10mg
- Cholesterol: 31mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamin A, contains small amounts of vitamin D and E
- Minerals: Trace amounts of calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Butter is high in calories and saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation. It provides vitamin A, which is beneficial for vision, skin, and immune health.
- Warning: Excessive consumption of saturated fat can contribute to heart disease, so use butter in moderation.
7. Water (1 cup)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions. It has no calories, fats, or sugars and is crucial for maintaining health.
- Warning: None, as water is essential for life and hydration.
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