Greek Pasteli Recipe

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food

Hippocrates

A delicious and healthy Greek Sesame Seed and Honey Bar, perfect with a cup of tea.

I love sesame seeds and I love honey so it is no wonder I seek out anything that combines the two. Pasteli is a Greek born recipe that is a combination of those two simple ingredients; crunchy or chewy depending on your preference, healthy and delicious. Surprisingly satisfying and so simple to make. These are a great snack and I like to have them on hand when we are sailing as a quick and nutritious energy booster.

Pasteli has a rich history originating in the Middle East and Greece around 6,000 years ago. In the Iliad, warriors would eat Pasteli before going into battle. In the original Olympic Games 700BC the athletes ate Sesame Seeds and Honey to sustain them. Considered a health food back in the day it seems to have gone full circle from being classed as a sweet treat (lolly or candy) to now once again being regarded as a healthy snack.

Sesame Seed Benefits:

• Great boost for digestion, hair growth, skin and dental health
• Known to help with sleep
• Blood sugar control
• Assist with arthritis
• Lowers cholesterol
• High in fibre, Omega 6, magnesium, iron and calcium

Honey Benefits:

• Improved heart health
• Great for assisting with hay-fever
• Blood antioxidant
• Can assist with lowering blood pressure
• Lowers cholesterol
• Fantastic sugar substitute

I sourced the sesame seeds and honey locally at the market. This way I feel happy that I am supporting the local economy but also and more importantly for me is knowing it is all natural and not processed beyond recognition. I love the simplicity of this Pasteli Recipe, anyone can make it.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 Cups of Sesame Seeds
• 1/2 Cup of Liquid Honey

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Preparation:

Before you start making this recipe get 2 large pieces of lightly oiled/greased baking paper and either line a baking tray with it or lay it on the bench. The mixture will be dumped onto the first layer of paper and then the second piece of paper is placed greased side down on top – then you will roll out the mixture to your desired thickness. This part needs to be done quite quickly hence being prepared first.

Method:

1. Lightly toast your Sesame Seeds – either in a fry pan or carefully in the oven at 160deg Celsius (325deg Farenheit). Be careful not to burn them. You just want a light golden colour.
2. Gently heat the honey in a medium sized saucepan, until bubbling. Allow to boil for 4-5 minutes on medium heat.
3. Pour the lightly toasted sesame seeds carefully into the honey and reduce heat.
4. Stir for 2-3 minutes to ensure thoroughly mixed, careful not to let it catch on the bottom. If you like a crunchier bar cook for a further 1-2 minutes.
5. To check if ready take a small amount out of the saucepan and put into a glass of cold water. If it spreads it needs more cooking, if it stays in a ball it is ready.
6. Pour the sesame mixture onto the greased paper, spread the second piece of paper on top (greased side down) and using a rolling pin, or a bottle gently roll to your desired thickness. I like mine quite thin, about 1/2 cm.
7. Once you have your thickness, gently remove the top piece of paper and leave to cool for approx 15 minutes.
8. Slice into bars or squares.
9. Leave to cool completely then place in an airtight container with greased paper in between layers.
10. Enjoy with a cup of your favourite tea.

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Let me know if you try this fabulous recipe, I would love to hear from you. Enjoy!

Happy tea drinking and fair winds ♥

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