We wish to welcome you into this beautiful city of food with one of the most loved delicacies we have to offer. It is made with the thinnest phyllo dough layers brushed with quality butter, then sprinkled with pistachio or walnuts(generally locals' favorite) and topped with a sweet, fragrant syrup to create the culinary perfection that's loved and worshipped by almost all Turkish people. Baklava, being a major controversy among all the countries that claim to be the first to create the recipe; is an inseparable part of Turkish culture. Baklava is what we bring with us when we visit a friend's or a relative's house and it is the sweet treat we crave after a good meal as a Turkish, I would like to believe that we make it the best! So when in Istanbul, it would be a crime not to try Baklava as it comes in so many different flavors and it is so yummy.
What is Baklava?
Baklava is a dessert made of thin phyllo layers, any type of chopped nuts you can think of like pistachio, walnuts, hazelnuts, a lot of butter, and sweet syrup or honey. It is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, and it has become a symbol of celebration and hospitality in various cuisines. There are so many different kinds of baklava, and because of its popularity we are coming up with new kinds all the time, but of course there are a few staple kinds that we can never give up on.
What Country Is Baklava From?
The history of Baklava is as rich and diverse as the layers of its pastry. Baklava is believed to have originated in the Middle East even though its origin causes arguments between the countries with claims ranging from Assyrian origins to Byzantine influence. Its roots trace back to the Ottoman Empire, where it gained popularity as a royal treat, and where it became a staple in the imperial kitchens of the Ottoman Sultans.
During the Ottoman period, skilled palace chefs refined the art of making Baklava, and it soon became a symbol of wealth and status. With the spread of the Ottoman Empire, Baklava's fame reached various corners of the world, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. The dessert became an essential part of festive celebrations, weddings, and religious ceremonies, reflecting its cultural significance.
The Legends Around Baklava
Like many beloved dishes, Baklava has its share of legends that add a touch of mystique to its origins. One such legend traces Baklava's roots to the city of Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey. According to this tale, a sultan, seeking a special treat for his harem, tasked the palace chefs with creating the most delightful dessert. The result was Baklava, a dish so exquisite that it quickly gained favor not only in the palace but also throughout the empire.
Another legend connects Baklava to the city of Damascus. It is said that the creation of Baklava was inspired by the city's ancient history and the layered architecture of its buildings. The dessert, with its delicate layers and sweet filling, is believed to be a culinary homage to the city's rich past.
While these legends may vary, they all emphasize the regal origins and sophisticated nature of Baklava, elevating it from a simple sweet to a symbol of refinement and indulgence.
Where Can One Eat Baklava?
As we have already mentioned, Baklava is claimed by many cultures and countries. Because of its popularity, you can try Baklava in many places like Germany and the States... While Baklava is now available worldwide, certain places are still renowned for producing the finest versions of this delectable dessert. Here are the places that are known for their quality Baklavas;
Istanbul, Turkey: As the former capital of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and Baklava is the highlight of all.
Athens, Greece: Baklava has found its way into Greek cuisine, and Athens boasts some exceptional pastry shops.
Damascus, Syria: Explore the vibrant markets of Damascus to discover Baklava made with a unique Syrian touch.
Beirut, Lebanon: Lebanese cuisine is known for its exquisite sweets, and Baklava is no exception.
Gaziantep, Turkey: Often referred to as the birthplace of Baklava, Gaziantep takes its pastry seriously and is considered to be the center of the best Baklava in Türkiye.
Best Type of Baklava's That You Should Try
Fıstıklı Baklava / Pistachio Baklava
This is one of the most authentic and older types of Baklava. It is made by the regular recipe and has the dough layers, a ton of pistachio, the butter, and the syrup. This is sooo perfect for those who like pistachio.
Cevizli Baklava / Walnut Baklava
This type is made with the same recipe as above, the only difference being the walnut instead of the pistachio and is also very famous. Despite it being very tasty, this kind is also famous because when Turkish people make Baklava in their home they tend to make Walnut Baklava since it is cheaper and more affordable than Pistachio Baklava. So when the holidays arrive, we eat a lot of Walnut Baklava during visits and we love it. We also sometimes call this type ' homemade baklava' for this reason.
The rest will be my recommendations about the types that I can't keep myself from eating when I see them in the Baklava store. *
Fıstıklı Sarma Baklava / Rolled-Pistachio Baklava
This one is very similar to the Pistachio Baklava as we can understand from the name, but has so much more pistachio in it and it's rolled instead of being cut into squares. If you like pistachio then you will love these Rolled-Pistachio Baklava's because all you can taste is the earthy pistachios with a touch of sweetness and fresh butter.
Soğuk-Sütlü Baklava / Cold-Milk Baklava
Cold-milk baklava is my suggestion for those who are not very big on sweet treats but still want to try a few types. Instead of being prepared with a water-sugar-lemon syrup, Cold-milk Baklava is prepared with a milk syrup and it makes it so much lighter. You can easily eat 4-5 pieces by yourself and it won't butter you :) This type also has shredded chocolate or sometimes cocoa powder on top to create a different taste and it's so yumm! (Don't confuse this type with chocolate baklava, this one doesn't have cocoa in the dough)
And One Extra, Baklava Cheesecake!
I wanted to mention Baklava Cheesecake for those who have been eating Baklava every day of their trip and now need a different taste. Baklava Cheesecake has all the fundamental elements of a Baklava and additionally a layer of creamy, light layer of Cheesecake in the middle! There are a few places that make it and it would be a great option to surprise your taste buds with a creamy, and almost traditional sweet.
Where To Try The Best Baklava
If you are looking to try the best quality Baklava, almost every local will recommend you to try Baklava in Karaköy Güllüoğlu. You can not go wrong with their fresh, high-quality, and diverse variety of Baklava selections. Their products are always fresh and they make anything you want into a safe-to-travel packaging. It is a bit more expensive than other options but always worth it.
Karaköy Güllüoğlu
If you don't like the first option, here are some other suggestions for good Baklava in Istanbul!
Hafız Mustafa
Ali Usta Baklavaları
Osmanlızadeler
Acemoğlu Baklavaları
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