Baklava holds a special place in Mediterranean cuisine. This widely loved dessert consists of baked Phyllo dough, butter, sugar, and chopped nuts, and a sweet layer of syrup or honey. It is the perfect way to finish your meal at a Persian restaurant. As you enjoy the sweet dough and crunch, consider the incredible story behind this equally incredible dish.

A Brief History of Baklava

The Name

The name’s etymology is from 1650. It is an English adaptation of the Turkish word baklağu. It may also have come from the Mongolian word bayla, which means “to tie, wrap up, or pile up.”

Original Recipe

The recipe is first recorded in the Topkapi Palace kitchen notebooks of the year 1473. After the Ottoman Empire invaded Constantinople, the kitchens of the famous palace became a culinary hub for the entire empire.

This dessert was a luxury reserved for the wealthy and for special occasions such as weddings. To this day, “I am not rich enough to eat baklava every day” is a common expression in Turkey.

Modern Adaptations

As baklava’s popularity and the Ottoman Empire’s influence spread, different cultures took the dish and made it their own. In Persian cuisine, for example, their culinary experts created a diamond-shaped dessert featuring a nut stuffing that was perfumed with jasmine. They also added sweetmeat to it.

In the mid-19th century, the ingredients were more readily available. This made it easier for everyone to enjoy the tasty dish, so you can order it at a Persian restaurant without breaking the bank.

Experience the rich history and sweet deliciousness of baklava for yourself at Sufi Kitchen in Atlanta, GA. This Persian restaurant brings fine dining with sophistication and authentic Mediterranean dishes. You can also enjoy their Persian food at your special event with their catering services. Learn more about their menu online and call (404) 888-9699 for reservations.