Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey Recipe from Tunisia

Region / culture: Tunisia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey is a delicious and sweet dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of almonds, honey, and butter with layers of crispy fillo dough to create a decadent treat that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe has its origins in Middle Eastern cuisine, where it is known as Baklawa or Baklava. It is a popular dessert in many countries in the region, and is often served during special occasions such as weddings, holidays, and celebrations.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of chopped almonds
0.5 cup of sugar
0.5 tsp of ground cardamom
1 lb (454 g) of melted sweet butter
2 lb (907 g) of thin sheet fillo, or shredded fillo dough
1 cup of honey

How to prepare

To make the stuffing, combine and mix walnuts, sugar, and cardamom. Set aside.
Brush a baking dish measuring about 9x13x2 inches with some of the melted butter.
Spread one fillo sheet flat in the pan, brush with about 1 tsp of butter. Stack about 15 fillo sheets using this method.
Spread one half of the stuffing mixture on the fillo sheets.
Spread and butter about five fillo sheets on top of the first layer of stuffing.
Spread the remaining half of the stuffing on top.
Spread and butter about 15 fillo sheets to make the top and final layer. Use more butter if you run out, or use less for each fillo layer.
With a sharp knife, cut into diamond or square shapes.
Pour the remaining melted butter on top.
Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 30 minutes, or until the surface turns a light golden color.
Pour honey over the Baklawa. When at room temperature, transfer individual pieces onto a serving dish.
Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the almond mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute pistachios or walnuts for the almonds for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brush each layer of fillo dough with butter to ensure that it bakes up crispy and golden brown.

- Be sure to evenly spread the almond and sugar mixture between the layers of fillo dough to ensure that each bite is filled with delicious flavor.

- Cutting the Baklawa into diamond or square shapes before baking will make it easier to serve and enjoy once it is finished baking.

Serving Suggestions

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey can be served on its own as a sweet treat, or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the fillo dough and almond mixture is the key technique in this recipe. Be sure to brush each layer of fillo dough with butter to ensure that it bakes up crispy and delicious.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have almonds on hand, you can substitute pistachios or walnuts in this recipe. You can also use ghee or clarified butter instead of sweet butter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Baklawa ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baklawa on a decorative platter garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of honey for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delicious and satisfying dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Baklawa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey is a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and copper.

Alergens

This recipe contains almonds and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, and provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins, who was known in our small town for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I entered her kitchen, I was greeted by the heavenly scent of almonds and honey wafting through the air.

Mrs. Jenkins was busy at work, carefully layering sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of crushed almonds and honey. She explained to me that this recipe was a family heirloom, passed down through generations. Each layer of phyllo dough represented a brick, and the almonds and honey symbolized the mortar that held it all together.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be in awe of her skill and expertise. She moved with such grace and precision, each layer of phyllo dough placed with care and attention to detail. It was clear that this recipe was not just a dish to her, but a labor of love.

After hours of preparation, the brick layers were finally ready to be baked in the oven. As they emerged golden and crispy, the aroma of almonds and honey filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation. Mrs. Jenkins offered me a piece, and as I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of sweetness and crunchiness unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I begged Mrs. Jenkins to share the recipe with me, and she gladly obliged. She walked me through each step, from crushing the almonds to drizzling the honey, making sure I understood the importance of patience and precision in creating this masterpiece.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time reminiscing about that fateful day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its unique combination of flavors and textures.

I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of lemon zest. But the essence of the dish remains the same – layers of phyllo dough, almonds, and honey, baked to perfection.

As I grow older, I find myself turning to this recipe more and more, finding comfort and solace in its familiar flavors. It reminds me of Mrs. Jenkins and the bond we shared over a love of food and cooking.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a sweet treat that will transport you to a world of warmth and nostalgia, look no further than my recipe for Brick Layers with Almonds and Honey. I promise you won't be disappointed.