Greek Baklava

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups chopped almonds
• 2 cups chopped walnuts
• 2 pounds (about 900 grams) filo pastry sheets
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• Zest of one lemon (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation time: 2 hours (including soaking the nuts and assembling the dish)
• Cooking time: 1 hour at 350°F (175°C)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty due to handling the filo pastry and precise folding technique)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the almonds and walnuts in warm water for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest (if using). Add the cooled melted butter and mix well.
4. Layer the pastry sheets on a baking dish, brushing each layer with butter. Ensure the edges are pressed together to seal.
5. Arrange the soaked and drained nuts in layers over the pastry, pressing lightly to ensure they adhere to the pastry.
6. Cover the entire dish with a final layer of pastry, sealing the edges. Brush the top with remaining butter.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before cutting into squares or diamonds.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total) Calories: 500-600, Fat: 30-40g, Carbohydrates: 50-60g, Protein: 8-10g, depending on exact ingredient quantities used.

Dish Characteristics:

• A sweet and rich dessert with a crispy pastry exterior and a soft, nutty interior.
• A traditional Greek dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a treat.
• The combination of nuts and pastry creates a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent version of Greek Baklava! The pastry was crispy and the nuts were perfectly roasted."
2. "The dish was quite rich but very tasty. The lemon zest added a nice citrusy note."
3. "I loved the combination of almonds and walnuts. It gave the baklava a unique flavor profile."
4. "The preparation was a bit challenging due to handling the filo pastry, but the result was well worth it."
5. "This dish is perfect for a special occasion or as a treat for guests."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Handle the filo pastry sheets carefully as they can tear easily.
• Make sure to seal the edges of the pastry well to prevent leakage during baking.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and butter according to your preference for a richer or less sweet dessert.