The African Gourmet

The initial unfamiliarity with Africa’s delicacies will soon become familiar. As you begin to read the recipe blogs and discover familiar ingredients Africa’s interesting gastronomic dishes will become everyday meals. The goal of The African Gourmet is to introduce uncomplicated and enjoyable African foods into kitchens across the world and establish recipes that are sure to become family favorites. Have fun creating African meals for everyday meals, holiday parties, after school treats, bake sales, fundraisers, bake offs, get-togethers etc…Shed light on African cuisine and take a step ahead to new culinary experiences.

Recipe:
Sweet & Easy Baklava

North Africa
Yields 12 to 14 servings

Ingredients:

One 16 ounce package phyllo dough

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups chopped walnuts

1 cup melted butter

Baklava Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

½ cup orange blossom honey

¼ teaspoon orange blossom water

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350° F. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. Mix cinnamon and walnuts in a medium bowl, set aside. Unroll phyllo cut into two equal halves. Cover phyllo with a slightly moist cloth while assembling to keep from drying out. Place 2 sheets of phyllo in the bottom of the prepared dish, brush liberally with butter, and sprinkle 3 tablespoons of cinnamon and walnut mixture on top. Repeat layers. Cut baklava into desired serving sizes bake 45-50 minutes. Meanwhile combine remaining ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low. Finally, when the baklava is removed from the oven immediately evenly pour syrup over the finished pastry. Allow cooling before serving. Store uncovered.