Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is a paper-thin sheet of dough used extensively in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Originating from the Greek word 'phyllo,' meaning leaf, it is believed to have been developed in the kitchens of the Byzantine Empire. Phyllo dough has a delicate, slightly floury taste, offering a neutral canvas that allows other ingredients to shine. Its texture is crisp and flaky when baked, creating layers that shatter beautifully with each bite. In cooking, phyllo dough requires careful handling due to its fragile nature; it dries out quickly and must be kept covered with a damp cloth while working with it. It browns rapidly in the oven, providing a golden, flaky structure to dishes, while contributing minimal moisture, making it ideal for both sweet and savory applications.

Notes

When selecting phyllo dough, opt for packages that feel moist and pliable rather than stiff. Store unopened phyllo in the freezer to maintain freshness, and once opened, use it promptly or refreeze unused portions wrapped tightly to prevent drying. Thaw phyllo dough overnight in the refrigerator before use. Handle it gently to avoid tearing, and keep the dough covered with a damp towel at all times while working with it to prevent it from drying out. Phyllo dough is gluten-free unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Uses

Spanakopita
Baklava layers
Stuffed pastries
Vegetable turnovers
Chicken rolls
Apple strudel

Replacements

Puff pastry
Wonton wrappers
Spring roll wrappers
Flatbread
Thin tortillas

Aioli

A luscious, velvety emulsion of garlic and olive oil, aioli is a rich and aromatic sauce that dances on the palate with its creamy texture and bold, pungent flavor.

Golden Syrup

Golden syrup is a sweet, amber-colored liquid derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. Originating in the United Kingdom, it has become a staple in British baking and cooking. The flavor profile is rich and complex, offering a balance of sweetness with subtle caramel and toffee notes. Its smooth, viscous texture makes it a pleasure to drizzle or spread. In cooking, golden syrup is prized for its ability to add moisture and a distinctive sweetness to baked goods, as well as its capacity to prevent sugar crystallization in candies and jams.

Recipes to try

Thai Green Curry Shrimp with Snow Peas

Succulent shrimp bathed in a fragrant green curry sauce, brightened with crisp snow peas and a squeeze of lime.

Smoky Paprika Beef and Potato Skillet Hash

Imagine the hearty aroma of smoky paprika mingling with tender beef and golden potatoes, all sizzled to perfection in one skillet.