Galaktoboureko, a popular Greek dessert, is a delightful combination of creamy custard and crispy phyllo pastry, drenched in sweet syrup. This traditional dessert can be a showstopper with its golden layers and irresistibly rich flavors. While it may sound complicated to make, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delicious Galaktoboureko in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fine semolina
– 4 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 sheets of phyllo pastry
– ½ cup breadcrumbs
– Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine the semolina and milk over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture thickens and starts to boil. This should take around 10 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the sugar gradually while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.
4. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs and slowly pour them into the semolina mixture while continuously whisking. Make sure to incorporate the eggs gradually to prevent them from curdling.
5. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside and let the custard cool slightly.
7. Brush a baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking. Layer 6 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the last sheet.
8. Pour the custard mixture over the layered phyllo pastry, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
9. Layer the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo on top, again brushing each sheet with melted butter. Brush the top sheet generously with melted butter as well.
10. Using a sharp knife, score the top layers of phyllo into diamond-shaped pieces. This will make it easier to cut the dessert later.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and crispy.
12. While the Galaktoboureko is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
13. Once the Galaktoboureko is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Pour the syrup evenly over the warm dessert, allowing it to seep into the phyllo layers and custard.
14. Allow the Galaktoboureko to cool completely before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
This very easy recipe for Galaktoboureko yields a dessert that will impress your friends and family with its irresistible combination of creamy custard and crispy phyllo pastry. The preparation may seem daunting at first, but don’t be discouraged – with the right ingredients and a little patience, you’ll be able to create this classic Greek delicacy in your own kitchen. Enjoy this delightful dessert alone or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of Greece.