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Classic Azerbaijani Paxlava Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Large skillet
- Pastry brush
- Large bowl
- Frying pan
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Cut the dough into 3-inch squares.
7. Place a teaspoon of the walnut mixture in the center of each square.
8. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
9. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
10. Fry the paxlava in batches until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
11. Transfer the paxlava to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain.
12. Place the paxlava on a wire rack to cool.

Time:
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: Makes 24 paxlava

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Vegetable oil can be substituted for butter
- Almonds can be substituted for walnuts
- Brown sugar can be substituted for white sugar

Variations:
- Paxlava can be filled with other ingredients such as raisins, dates, or apricots
- The dough can be flavored with cardamom or nutmeg

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the paxlava
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when frying

Storage Instructions:
Paxlava can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Paxlava can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Paxlava can be served on a platter with fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Paxlava can be garnished with chopped walnuts, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey.

Pairings:
Paxlava pairs well with a cup of strong black tea or a glass of sweet white wine.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Paxlava can be served with a side of yogurt or a salad of fresh vegetables.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the paxlava is not browning evenly, turn the heat down and cook for a few minutes longer.
- If the paxlava is too greasy, drain it on paper towels before serving.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the paxlava to prevent it from sticking.
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil before frying.

Food History:
Paxlava is a traditional Azerbaijani dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the city of Baku, where it is still popular today.

Flavor Profiles:
Paxlava has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cinnamon and butter.

Serving Suggestions:
Paxlava can be served as a dessert or a snack. It can also be served with ice cream or fresh fruit.

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Region: Azerbaijani

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Syrupy, Fragrant