Recipe
Greek Honey Sesame Bars
Golden Delights: Greek Honey Sesame Bars
4.1 out of 5
Indulge in the sweet and nutty flavors of Greek cuisine with these delectable Honey Sesame Bars. A traditional treat known as Melekouni, these bars are made with a combination of honey, sesame seeds, and aromatic spices.
Metadata
Preparation time
15 minutes
Cooking time
10 minutes
Total time
2 hours 25 minutes
Yields
12 bars
Preparation difficulty
Easy
Suitable for
Vegetarian, Mediterranean, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free
Allergens
Sesame seeds, Honey
Not suitable for
Vegan, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein
Ingredients
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2 cups (400g) sesame seeds 2 cups (400g) sesame seeds
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1 cup (340g) honey 1 cup (340g) honey
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
Nutrition
- Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
- Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
- Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Salt: 0g
Preparation
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1.In a dry skillet, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
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2.In a large saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it becomes thin and runny.
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3.Add the toasted sesame seeds, ground cinnamon, and orange zest to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
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4.Continue cooking the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
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5.Remove the mixture from heat and transfer it to a greased baking dish or pan.
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6.Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
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7.Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or refrigerate for faster setting.
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8.Once set, cut the mixture into individual bars or squares.
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9.Serve and enjoy!
Treat your ingredients with care...
- Sesame seeds — Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor. Make sure to keep an eye on them while toasting to prevent burning.
- Honey — Use a high-quality honey for the best flavor. If the honey is too thick, gently heat it to make it easier to mix with the sesame seeds.
Tips & Tricks
- For added crunch, you can mix in some chopped almonds or pistachios with the sesame seeds.
- If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the mixture.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Serving advice
Serve these Greek Honey Sesame Bars as a delightful snack with a cup of Greek coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter or can be enjoyed on their own.
Presentation advice
Arrange the bars on a serving platter and sprinkle some extra toasted sesame seeds on top for an attractive presentation. You can also drizzle a little extra honey over the bars for a touch of sweetness.
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