Wonderful Walnut Baklava

Walnuts have been cherished for thousands of years, with their origins traced back to Persia (modern-day Iran). Ancient civilizations valued walnuts for their rich flavor, versatility, and impressive health benefits. In fact, the Greeks and Romans, in particular, recognized walnuts as a symbol of wisdom and vitality, using them in traditional medicines and incorporating them into various dishes such as this Wonderful Walnut Baklava.

Today, walnuts are grown worldwide and are a popular ingredient in many cuisines. Beyond their delightful taste and texture, walnuts are packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits, making them a totally not-guilty pleasure and a great addition to a healthy diet.

Nutritional Powerhouse

Unquestionably, walnuts are a true nutritional powerhouse. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider adding more walnuts to your diet:

Surprisingly, walnuts have a higher antioxidant content compared to most other nuts. Antioxidants help protect your body from oxidative damage, which is a major contributor to aging and various diseases.
Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is essential for heart health. Consuming walnuts regularly can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
The shape of walnuts resembles a brain, and it turns out they are good for brain health! Walnuts contain polyunsaturated fats, polyphenols, and vitamin E, all of which are known to support cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Eating walnuts can increase the production of beneficial bacteria in your gut, which can improve digestion and overall gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for immune function and can even influence mood and mental health.
Although walnuts are calorie-dense, they can help manage weight when eaten in moderation. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in walnuts can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the temptation to snack on less healthy options.

Wonderful Walnut Baklava

Baklava, a rich and sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup, is a classic dessert enjoyed in many cultures. This version uses walnuts for their health benefits and is sweetened with honey for a more natural alternative to refined sugar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 sheets of filo dough (whole wheat if available)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup honey (for syrup)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts with cinnamon and set aside.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then brush a baking dish with olive or coconut oil. Lay one sheet of filo dough in the dish and brush with more oil. Repeat with six sheets, brushing each with oil. Sprinkle half of the walnut mixture evenly over the filo. Continue layering with the remaining six sheets of filo, brushing each with oil.

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Then bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

While the baklava is baking, combine the water, honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the honey syrup over the top, making sure to cover all of the pieces. Lastly, let the baklava sit for at least an hour to absorb the syrup.

The dish is ready once fully cooled and the syrup has been absorbed. By all means, serve and enjoy your Wonderful Walnut Baklava!