Pasteli with a Twist

Recipe

Pasteli with a Twist

Honey and Sesame Bars: A Greek Delight

4.6 out of 5

Indulge in the sweet and nutty flavors of Pasteli, a traditional Greek treat. This recipe combines the richness of honey with the crunch of sesame seeds, resulting in a delightful snack that is both nutritious and delicious.

Jan Dec
Snack› Pasteli
European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Greek cuisine

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

10 minutes

Total time

2 hours and 25 minutes

Yields

12 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Paleo, Mediterranean diet

Allergens

Sesame seeds

Not suitable for

Vegan (due to the use of honey)

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 18g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large saucepan, heat the honey over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil.
  2. 2.
    Add the white and black sesame seeds, ground cinnamon, and sea salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
  3. 3.
    Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
  4. 4.
    Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  5. 5.
    Line a baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mixture into the dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
  6. 6.
    Allow the Pasteli to cool completely and set at room temperature for about 2 hours.
  7. 7.
    Once set, cut the Pasteli into bars or bite-sized pieces.
  8. 8.
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to the Pasteli.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a variation, you can add chopped nuts such as almonds or pistachios to the mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Make sure to use a good quality honey for the best taste.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, cook the mixture for a shorter time. For a firmer texture, cook it for a few minutes longer.

Serving advice

Serve the Pasteli as a delightful snack or dessert. It pairs well with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Pasteli bars on a platter or in a decorative box. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

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