The most delicious Arabic food

Deliciously Unique: How to Make Baklava with Beans, Coconut, and Raisins

Baklava is a classic Middle Eastern dessert, but this unique twist adds beans, coconut, and raisins for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This fusion recipe blends tradition with creativity, creating a deliciously sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Baklava Layers:

• 1 package phyllo dough (about 16-18 sheets)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Unique Filling:

• 1 cup cooked white beans, mashed
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon rose water (optional for fragrance)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and honey over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add lemon juice.
3. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Stir in rose water (if using) and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed beans, shredded coconut, raisins, chopped nuts, cinnamon, cardamom, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. Assemble the Baklava:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with butter.
3. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with melted butter.
4. Repeat this step with 6 more sheets, buttering each layer.
5. Spread half of the bean-coconut filling evenly over the dough.
6. Add 5 more layers of buttered phyllo.
7. Spread the remaining filling over the second layer.
8. Finish with 5-6 more layers of phyllo, buttering each one.

4. Cut and Bake:

1. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Add the Syrup:

1. Remove baklava from the oven and immediately pour cooled syrup over the hot pastry.
2. Let it soak for at least 2 hours before serving.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Sprinkle with extra shredded coconut or crushed nuts.
2. Serve and enjoy this unique, deliciously sweet baklava!

Tips for the Best Baklava

• Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent drying.
• Pour cold syrup over hot baklava to maintain crispiness.
• Experiment with flavors by adding orange zest or chopped dates to the filling.

This innovative baklava recipe brings together unexpected ingredients for a rich, nutty, and sweet delight. Try it today and enjoy a delicious fusion of flavors! 🍯🥥🍇