Authentic Greek Saragli Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Baklava

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of chopped walnuts
  • 1 cup of chopped almonds
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
  • 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz)
  • 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cups of sugar for syrup
  • 3 cups of water for syrup
  • 1/2 cup of honey for syrup
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for syrup

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
  2. In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, chopped almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
  3. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut the stack in half to fit the dish. Cover the phyllo with a dampened cloth to keep it from drying out.
  4. Place two sheets of dough in the dish, butter thoroughly, then add two more sheets. Sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of the nut mixture on top. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with about 6 sheets of phyllo.
  5. Using a sharp knife, cut the Saragli into diamond or square shapes all the way to the bottom of the dish.
  6. Bake for about 50 minutes until Saragli is golden and crisp.
  7. While SARAGLI is baking, make the syrup. Combine sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  8. Remove Saragli from oven and immediately spoon the syrup over it. Let it cool. Serve in cupcake papers.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl used for combining the nuts, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
  • Baking Dish - A dish used for layering the phyllo dough and nut mixture.
  • Pastry Brush - A brush used for thoroughly buttering the phyllo dough layers.
  • Sharp Knife - A knife used for cutting the Saragli into diamond or square shapes.
  • Saucepan - A pan used for making the syrup.
  • Spoon - A utensil used for stirring and spooning the syrup over the baked Saragli.
  • Dampened Cloth - A cloth used for covering the phyllo dough to prevent it from drying out during preparation.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of nuts such as pistachios or pecans instead of walnuts and almonds.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the nut mixture for additional flavor.
  • Replace the regular sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
  • Instead of traditional phyllo dough, try using puff pastry sheets for a flakier texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free phyllo dough or substitute with gluten-free puff pastry.
  • Add a sprinkle of orange zest or rose water to the syrup for a citrusy or floral twist.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute the melted butter with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil.
  • Create a chocolate version by adding a layer of melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the nut mixture.
  • Add dried fruits such as raisins or chopped dates to the nut mixture for texture and sweetness.
  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes, such as rolling the Saragli into cigar shapes or making mini Saragli bites.

Recipe overview

Saragli is a delightful Greek dessert, a variation of the famous Baklava. This delicious treat is packed with layers of crispy phyllo dough, a spicy nut mixture, and a sweet syrup that brings it all together. Our recipe will guide you through the process of creating this dessert, using simple steps and everyday ingredients. Expect a journey that starts with the creation of a nutty filling, then moves on to layering and folding phyllo, baking until golden brown, and finally soaking in a fragrant syrup. While Saragli may take some time to prepare, the result is a delectably sweet and crunchy dessert that's a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of nuts for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use different types of nuts or adjust the quantities to your preference. However, keep in mind that the original recipe calls for chopped walnuts and almonds.
  2. Is it necessary to dampen the cloth when covering the phyllo dough?
    Yes, it is important to dampen the cloth to prevent the phyllo dough from drying out and becoming brittle.
  3. Can I use margarine or oil instead of butter?
    While butter is traditionally used in this recipe for its flavor, you can substitute margarine or oil if desired.
  4. How long does it take for Saragli to cool after pouring the syrup?
    It is recommended to let Saragli cool completely after pouring the syrup, which usually takes around 1-2 hours.
  5. Can I make Saragli in advance?
    Yes, Saragli can be made in advance. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Saragli, a variant of the renowned Greek dessert Baklava, has a rich history rooted in the Ottoman Empire. It's a testament to the shared culinary heritage of the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Balkan regions. While Baklava is often associated with the Greeks, it's actually a dessert that was perfected in the imperial kitchens of the Topkapı Palace in Istanbul. The dessert was then spread far and wide across the empire's vast territories. Saragli is distinct in its rolled form, unlike the traditional layered Baklava, making it a unique and delectable treat. As with many culinary classics, each family would have their own recipe, passed down from generation to generation, each adding their own bit of love and flair to the irresistible combination of nuts, spices, phyllo dough, and sweet syrup.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.