Elegant Vegan Egyptian Faux-Baklava with Pistachio Crumble and Cardamom Syrup

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• 1 package vegan phyllo dough sheets 1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cardamom Pinch of salt 1 cup water 3/4 cup sugar 1 tbsp lemon juice 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp rosewater 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground cardamom 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

1. a. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). b. In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and pistachios with sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Mix well. c. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush lightly with melted coconut oil. Place another sheet on top and repeat until you have 8 layers in total. Cut the layered phyllo into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. d. Place a portion of the nut mixture onto one corner of each phyllo square or rectangle, and fold diagonally to form triangles or rectangles. Arrange the filled phyllo pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them for expansion during baking. e. Bake in preheated oven for 20 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. f. While the Faux Baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining water, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, rosewater, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. g. Once the Faux Baklava is baked, remove from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup over the pastries, allowing them to soak and absorb the flavors. h. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining pistachios and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the soaked Faux Baklava. i. Allow the dessert to rest for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Chef’s Insight

Using a blend of walnuts and pistachios adds depth and complexity to the nutty flavor of this Faux-Baklava, while the cardamom syrup adds an aromatic and fragrant touch.

Notes

Ensure that you use high-quality phyllo dough for a crispy and flaky texture.