Pasteli is a delightful Greek candy that satisfies any sweet tooth. This traditional sweet is made from simple ingredients like honey and sesame seeds, resulting in a healthy treat that’s both crunchy and chewy. With its rich flavor, Pasteli not only serves as a snack but also as an energy booster, making it a popular choice among many. Let’s get started on how to make this delicious candy!
Why You’ll Love This Pasteli
There are numerous reasons to fall in love with Pasteli. First, it’s a nut-based confection that packs a nutritional punch, offering several health benefits. This candy is rich in protein and healthy fats from the nuts, making it a healthy sesame treat perfect for snacking. Secondly, it’s naturally sweetened with Greek honey, eliminating the need for added sugars. The nutritional benefits of Pasteli are impressive, as it provides a good source of energy without the crash of processed sweets. Furthermore, making Greek Pasteli at home is a simple process, allowing for customization with various nuts and spices. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with friends or family!
Ingredients for Pasteli
Gather these items:
- 1 cup Greek Honey (Use high-quality honey for best flavor.)
- 1 cup Sesame Seeds (Toast until golden brown.)
- 1/2 cup Chopped Nuts (almonds or pistachios) (Adds crunch and flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (For a refreshing twist.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances flavor profile.)
- a pinch Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.)
How to Make Pasteli Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Toast Sesame Seeds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the sesame seeds. Toast them for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously until they turn golden brown and become fragrant.
- Step 2: Prepare Honey Mixture: In a small saucepan, gently bring the Greek honey to a boil over medium heat. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until it thickens, aiming for a temperature of 240°F (115°C).
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Once the honey is ready, carefully stir in the toasted sesame seeds, making sure to include any optional extras like nuts or spices if desired.
- Step 4: Shape the Candy: Transfer the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface. Cover it with another sheet of parchment, and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness for a perfect consistency.
- Step 5: Cool and Cut: Allow the Pasteli to set for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, peel away the parchment and cut it into Pasteli bars or your favorite shapes for serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasteli
Keep these in mind:
- For a unique twist, try adding orange zest or cinnamon as mentioned in the recipe.
- Make sure your sesame seeds are toasted just right; too little, and they won’t have the full flavor, too much, and they might burn.
- Consider using a mix of different nuts to elevate the flavor and texture of your homemade Pasteli recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Pasteli
This sweet sesame snack is versatile. Enjoy it on its own as a quick energy booster or pair it with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also serve it as part of a dessert platter alongside other traditional Greek sweets. If you have kids, Pasteli with nuts and honey can be an exciting way to introduce them to healthier snacks!
How to Store and Reheat Pasteli
Allow the Pasteli to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you need to reheat it, a few seconds in the microwave should suffice, but it’s best enjoyed at room temperature. Meal prep enthusiasts will appreciate that this candy can be made ahead of time for quick snacks during the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pasteli
What’s the secret to perfect Pasteli?
The secret lies in toasting the sesame seeds perfectly and ensuring the honey reaches the right temperature for that perfect chewy texture. Experimenting with different nuts can also elevate the flavor.
Can I make Pasteli ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pasteli can be made in advance and stored for up to two weeks. It’s a great option for meal prep or to have on hand for unexpected guests.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pasteli?
Common mistakes include burning the sesame seeds or not cooking the honey long enough. Always monitor the temperature and timing to achieve that perfect consistency.
Variations of Pasteli You Can Try
There are numerous variations of Pasteli to explore. Consider adding dried fruits like figs or apricots for a chewy texture, or try different nut combinations such as walnuts or pecans for a unique taste. For a vegan option, you can replace the honey with maple syrup, creating a delicious alternative that still captures the essence of this traditional Greek sweet.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a wholesome meal. If you’re interested in other sweet treats, our Blueberry Blondies are a must-try!
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Delicious Pasteli: 5 Steps to Greek Candy Bliss
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Pasteli Recipe: Easy Greek Candy to Satisfy Cravings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek Honey (Use high-quality honey for best flavor.)
- 1 cup Sesame Seeds (Toast until golden brown.)
- 1/2 cup Chopped Nuts (almonds or pistachios) (Adds crunch and flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (For a refreshing twist.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances flavor profile.)
- a pinch Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.)
Instructions
- Toast Sesame Seeds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the sesame seeds. Toast them for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously until they turn golden brown and become fragrant.
- Prepare Honey Mixture: In a small saucepan, gently bring the Greek honey to a boil over medium heat. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until it thickens, aiming for a temperature of 240°F (115°C).
- Combine Ingredients: Once the honey is ready, carefully stir in the toasted sesame seeds, making sure to include any optional extras like nuts or spices if desired.
- Shape the Candy: Transfer the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface. Cover it with another sheet of parchment, and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness for a perfect consistency.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the Pasteli to set for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, peel away the parchment and cut it into bars or your favorite shapes for serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
