I can’t help myself! I can’t stop watching your videos! There’s something about Tom’s voice that is like a warm hug. Both Tom and Melissa are delightful. And I also am a fan of how Tom scrapes the bowls, etc. lol.
Hello! I discovered your channel a few days ago and I love watching you cook and bake and hearing your wife in the background. You two have to be the sweetest couple ever!! I was so excited to come upon your Baklava episode as I was born in Greece and even though I grew up in the US, I have kept to my Greek heritage and love for my beautiful country. I scrolled through the comments for this episode before I started typing and I have to say that the tone of some of the commenters sounded quite rude to me. Greek ladies are very proud of their own version of Baklava, as it has been taught by example from their mothers and yiayias!! And so, the Baklava you loving made in this episode was beautiful and I hope you have the opportunity to teach your children and friends. Continue making beautiful memories!! 💙🇬🇷💙
So sorry for your heart breaking loss. And never ever ever apologize for the emotions that come from loving your parents and good memories from the past.
LMAO @ 24:15.....OH DARN!?....lol....While this is might be time consuming for the steps....I TRULY didn't think it might be this easy. I LOVE Baklava and buy it every chance I might get. And truth be told....looks like an INEXPENCIVE and knowingly DELICIOUS recipe...... You're father would be PROUD. Keep this tradition alive!
I am Definitely going to try this fruit cake. I'm not a big fan of fruit cake but my husband was. I lost him December of 2021. So, I'm going to make it for him, ( in memory). I have a feeling that I will like fruit cake after I make this recipe you have so kindly shared.
I wanted to tell you, back in the late 60’s to the 70’s our church choir director was from Greece. I lived in Lubbock TX, my hometown. His sister lived in Greece still. His name was Chris Galanos. I just loved he and his family. His sister came to Lubbock around Christmas one year. She made Baklava. Wow! It was so delicious. I will always remember this. His favorite song he led was, I Love You Lord….. ❤️🌼
I made baklava once. I got the recipe from my friend's daughter who is married to a man from Greece. I followed all the steps. She neglected to tell me not to pour hot syrup on hot baklava. I had a soggy mess & didn't know why. I was so disappointed. I've never made it again. Now thanks to this video I will make it again. Thank you so much ❤
No need to apologize, sir ! The fact that your have feelings and emotions means that you are HUMAN !! Thank you for sharing this beautiful story and this DELICIOUS recipe !! Have a great dessert for the upcoming holidays. Peace !!
My family is from the middle east, Syria and Lebanon to be exact. The correct way to do the syrup is the syrup needs to be made first and it has to cool. When the golden colored baklava is done then you pour the cooled syrup over the hot baklava. The Greek, Syrian, and Lebanese baklava is done the same way. I'm sure the way you do it is the way your friends told you, however the traditional way is syrup made first then pour cooled syrup over golden brown baklava. Also when you are cutting before you cook, it is cut all the way through.
I am Russian/Greek Orthodox lady and this sweet has been a part of my experiences for many years. I am 74 years old and a convert to Orthodoxy from a my young 20s. I know you are serving for Christmas but it is made for many occasions, like Feast Days, Name Days, and Pascha (Easter) for sure as well as Christmas when we break the Fasting periods. I am going to make this for Christmas this year, God Willing!!!! I have been quite unwell for the past couple of years but hope and pray to muster the courage to make this soon. Thanks for sharing and God Bless you and your loved ones. Ruth Catherine in Maryland, USA
Oh Ruth Catherine, you are just the sweetest thing! I'm praying for you right now to be well enough to make and enjoy baklava this Christmas. And I will agree that it's too delicious to only have once a year! I sure pray for your health to improve steadily! Thank you so much for watching our channel and videos. We really appreciate it!
I’ve made baklava; the easiest way to spread butter is put the melted butter in a spray bottle and friend of mine is Greek, she uses a spray bottle specifically for baklava it shortens the time of creating the dish. Just wanted to share the tip. Awesome yummy videos you create
Great tip! That's a wonderful idea. Baklava is such a wonderful treat, too! It's good year-round as far as we're concerned. Thank you so much for watching our channel.
Is there anything you don’t make? I never, ever thought I would see someone make Baklava! Let alone a man who loves to cook from Kentucky! Who knew?!? Such a special dessert with such special memories attached! May God continue to bless you and yours in the years to come. Your children are truly blessed as were your students. I know, since I’m a retired teacher as well who taught students with both learning disabilities and students with severe developmental disabilities for almost 30 years and would never have chosen any other profession on earth! I feel so honored to have caught this video today and can’t believe I could actually make Baklava! And I thought the store bought Baklava was so delicious! Can you imagine if I made some homemade?!? Thank you! And may both of you have a very Merry Christmas! 🎄🎄
What a team you both are! The instructions cannot be beat and Melissa, you really know how to work a camera. Thanks too for all the ingredients listed. Can't wait to make this. Thanks to Bill and Kate for this authentic recipe. It's beautiful to have such fond memories of you dad and his love of his best friends and his Greek baklava. ❤
@@jamesbacon7415Your UA-cam settings are probably on Auto play. You can change that in the settings but for some reason UA-cam will automatically revert back to it so I just go back & reset it every time it does that. Hope that helps.
Never apologize for your genuine emotions. Some people only get in touch with their own emotions by being drawn in by the emotions of others. For the rest of us, when not carried to extremes, emotions like you expressed, Tom, usually touch our hearts and tend to make us more compassionate and better people. For those for whom this doesn't happen I feel sorry for them. Compassion is supposed to be part of us. It helps us to value other people and appreciate their circumstances. I appreciate that you did not stifle your emotions. Yes, appropriately you contained them but not stifled them. I think that by sharing your memories associated with your father and those good friends you made the episode better. Thank you. Now on to the baklava. I have made it at Christmas time for many years. Although you did not express it this way I think you feel it. Making baklava is a labor of love. It is quite time consuming especially when you add in all of the waiting time. Overall, though, I think it's worth it. My family and friends certainly do. Baklava, fudge and peanut brittle are EXPECTED around here. In the recipe from your friend did she specify a particular type of honey? Different honeys taste different. Some are deep and bold in flavor. Some are a bit sweeter yet at the same time seem lighter. Which was recommended? Have you found it easily accessible? Which do you use? I agree with you about cutting the diamond shapes. IF I was really trying to impress someone who knew a lot about Greek culture and baklava I would probably make the effort to do the diamonds, otherwise I'm with you. It's all squares. I did notice you are fairly generous in the size of your squares. I thought, and appropriately so, baklava was cut into smallish pieces because it is so rich. As good as it is one bite can give you sugar overkill. As loud decibels are to hearing baklava is to your taste buds and sugar consumption. Too much is too much. ...... At least for 15-30 minutes until you've recovered from over sweetness and go back for more. It is too good to act with really good sense. As long as it is there most people will, almost must, go back for more. Thanks for going through it step by step. I have tried to get several people to make it but they think it is far too complicated. Your video shows that is not the case. It is, as you said, a process, not really complicated at all. Reading a recipe it might easily appear so. By sharing this video I think I will be able to convert a few scaredy cooks.
I know you come to Florida each year. If you have never been to Tarpon Springs you NEED to put it on your to do list this year. I will even meet you there and take you for a Greek Salad you will never forget and send you home with Baklava cheese cake from HELENA’S bakery. Hope you read the comments on your older videos. Also if you spray your measuring cup with cooking spray your honey will glide out. I am of the cold syrup on hot Baklava persuasion myself lol but I don’t think you can hurt the taser either way.
As a Greek person myself allow me to make some corrections and offer a few tips. When you say you must allow the baklava to cool 100% in order to pour the hot syrup is only half truth. The preferred method we all use is pouring cold syrup over the hot baklava that comes out of the oven. I always make my syrup from the day before or the morning of. Once the baklava comes piping hot out of the oven that's when you pour over the cold syrup. Both methods work just fine but it has to be either hot syrup and cold baklava or cold syrup and hot baklava. It is false when you're telling your viewers that they cannot do it one of those ways. There is no point waiting hours for it to cool down when you can make your syrup in advance, let it come to room temperature and then pour it over the hot baklava. As well I would like to tell everybody that the colour was a little bit off and that it needed a little bit longer in the oven. However perhaps it was the lighting over the baklava that made it look so pale. It should be more of a golden colour.
0:04 I was thinking the same thing. When it came out of the oven I thought oh that’s not quite done and I thought he’d put it back in a while longer. I also cook mine at a higher temperature. Sometimes if I’m in a hurry I’ll throw the broiler on to make it golden brown. Also I never use that much syrup but that’s just our preference over the years.
@@judycarpenter5258 are you serious right now. There's no criticism. I think if somebody is going to be bold enough to post a video with the recipe they should at least have the decency to make sure that it is being properly presented. I'm all for variations but there are certain things that are non-negotiable. Have a wonderful day.
I REALLY ENJOY YOUR CHANNEL AND YOU DON'T HAVE TO APOLOGIZE FOR ANYTHING THAT IS HOW YOU REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES ABOUT SOMEONE YOU LOVE GOD BLESS LOVE YOU TO LIFE ITSELF
Love Baklava. Never would have thought to make it myself. But you made it look so easy. Can’t wait to try it. Thanks for the video and recipe and the beautiful story behind it all!
You both are so very loving. Please don’t ever feel the need to apologize for feeling the loss of a loved one. The memories we have made with loved ones will always be tied to things we experience. Thank you for sharing this experience with us. I’m so sorry for your loss! Blessings
I’m sorry for the loss of your father. I’ve lost both my parents and it’s hurts for a long time. Never be embarrassed for expressing your loss. I’ve had real Baclava. It is delicious but that is complicated. Thanks for sharing your recipes.
I worked at a large dentist office and the man who was in charge of the dental laboratory where they could make dentures and make repairs was Greek and his wife made Baklava and he brought some in and I tried it and I thought it was one of the most delicious sweet treats I ever had. I also learned about Poviticia which is a bread stretched very thin layered with ground nuts and butter and sugar and rolled up. Those were two ethnic treats that I love and the first one is Greek and the second treat is Croatian. I’m Irish, English on my dad’s side and French, Swedish on my mother’s and they didn’t ever make any ethnic food. Nobody in my family were great cooks. I love other nationalities foods. That is the beauty of America we can enjoy all groups of people and their special foods.
I am searching for something my former mother in law made that sounds like the Croatian one you described. I think UA-cam will have my answer. I didn’t have a name- she called it nut cake and my recipe got lost. She is in heaven. Thanks.
Love, Love, Love Baklava!!!!! I am so Thankful that you all have shown us how to make it. Merry Christmas to you Melissa, Tom, & you're family. God Bless All & May The Spirit of the Lord Indwell you're Home!! 🎄♥️✝️👑🎉
Never apologize for how your heart feels. I adore that you had that special bond with your Father. I was not blessed with that. I do not envy anyone for that. I just enjoy seeing true family love.💗 I make Baklava with walnuts. An Assyrian woman taught me. ❤❤
What a beautiful video this was. I loved the baklava and how to make it, but I also loved the story that you shared with us. Tom, I think that your dad is enjoying your baklava with you, your family and friends. P.S. I'm on my way, fork in hand. Thanks
I had a baby sitter/ neighbor who was Greek and she showed me how to make it and we love it. My friend has since passed away and I cherish all these memories and special times with her.❤❤❤😢😢😢 I always used unsalted butter.
My husband was half Armenian. I learned how to make baklava right away, after having it at Greek town in Detroit Michigan. They didn't use cinnamon or cloves. They did use a touch of allspice and added a dash of lemon juice in the honey syrup. Less sugar in the syrup. And do cut it in parallelogram shapes. Straight on the long sides and at an angle on the short sides.
Sorry for your loss 😢Thankfully God gives us peace in time to mend our broken hearts and the Best thing is all the Wonderful Memories we have forever ❤️ I know this isn’t the present since this is August of 2023, but my thoughts for you and your family the same. I hope your good friend Kay is watching! Is there anyone that doesn’t Love Baklava! I worked with a Lady who was from Greece so we were always Blessed with amazing delicious Greek Goodies. Cabbage rolls are really good also, besides other recipes. There really isn’t any Greek food that wouldn’t be Amazing 😋 Thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe. I have never been privileged to watch someone make it so now I will feel more confident that I could actually make Baklava which is my family’s favorite also. Thank you again🙏 I love watching your videos!! I save all of them!! Be Safe and Well❤Also you make everything look so easy!! Thank you!
I have a quick story to share, inspired by the story of your Greek Baklava friend. I met an older couple this past winter that shared a “mom” story and showed me a picture of his mothers headstone. On the back side of her headstone was her famous Christmas Cookie Recipe. Then my friend shared “the rest of the story” with me. When his mother was alive, EVERYONE would ask hiis mom for her CHRISTMAS COOKIE recipe….. Her response was always, “Over my dead body!” Thus the recipe on her headstone. I will be trying your Baklava. Thank you for sharing. >^..^< Debi in Montana
We enjoy watching your videos….we cook much the same. We live in Kentucky. We have been Pastoral friends with Bill K and Kay for many years….that made this video extra special! Thank you and God bless!
Even though it is months later, my sincere condolences for the loss of your father. I have to tell you that I really enjoy your videos with such detail and sentimental stories that you share. You make a great team! I absolutely love pecans and my hubby loves honey, sounds like a match made in heaven! I’ve never tasted or even thought about making it but my mouth is watering and this recipe is a must for me to make. Thank you for sharing! Not sure if you already have a video for pecan pie but if not, please consider it! Yum!!
I have made a few appearances but I'm much more comfortable behind the camera. I think I'd be a nervous mess trying to cook with it being recorded! We really do appreciate that you are watching our channel.
This is how I make mine except I cut it diagonally to get the diamond shape. I don’t make a syrup but heat honey and pour over after taking it out of the oven. It’s always best the next day. I always get compliments saying it’s better than what people have had from Greek town in Detroit.
My daddy and I made bakalava when he was in his 90's, We had so much fun together and it took us almost all day to make it! 😁I've never seen another recipe like it. When we made the syrup, we boiled a whole orange for a few minutes,
Tom, I like it when you show your feelings. Life matters! I’m sorry for your loss. You’re a very kind and giving person, as is your wife, Melissa. Have a blessed day… ❤️🌼🌸🌻
I've only been watching your videos for a couple months now and came across this one today. I can so see the teacher side that comes out in each video. I love how easy and step by step for us visual learner's. Tom is awesome, I love how emotional he gets talking about his loved ones. Real men cry❤. Melissa, you are such a blessed lady to have such an amazing cook. I love to cook and my children have always watched me but our oldest daughter married a "Tom" and we are blessed to get to enjoy his cooking. So happy God brought me to you sweet peeps table. God bless both of you. ❤
Thank you for such a nice, kind comment. You have no idea how encouraging your words are. I agree with you, it's really easy to see those teacher skills coming out when Tom makes these recipes. We try to make them so that anyone, even a brand new totally inexperienced cook, can follow and successfully recreate the dish. We appreciate that you have joined us at the table! Have a wonderful evening.
My daughter in law is from Crete and she makes enough baklava and cookies for an army for every holiday! Yum. For those pesky air bubbles a long pin will take care of them. Thank you for making everything look so easy to make. ❤❤❤
Back when i had a family i made 24 huge pans of this every Christmas i miss it. Butter a metal spatula and go straight down to score it. This is a little different recipe than but looks yummy.
Tom and Melissa...this looks so delicious 😋 I'm 71 years old and I have never had baklava. Or okra. Always wanted to but never have. I love to cook and bake, so... I'm going to try this at Christmas 🎄⛄. Okra is another story. I've always been told it's slimy. I have to have all my food, well done 👍. Love you both. Love watching your videos. God bless you both. ❤ Kennetha... pronounced Ka-nee-tha and yes I'm named after my Daddy.❤
Kennetha, we are so tickled you are going to make this recipe. It's so good, I wouldn't wait until Christmas! If you have any friends or family to share it with now, they are going to be so happy to see you coming! This is a recipe our kids always request.
I've always wanted someone to show me how to make this!!! What a Christmas gift you've both given me. Wowza... thank you!!! 🙇♀️🎄😘 I'm soooooo excited!!
I have always wanted to make Baklava but was afraid to try! You make it look a lot less intimidating and I think I will try to make it!! Thank you so much’n😊😊
You both are a hoot! I am so happy I stumbled across you all. I always wondered how to make Baklava. Now I'm going to give the Greek version a shot. Plus your Derby pie! Keep up the cooking and baking! I'll keep watching 👀
Oh Tom and Melissa, this is the first time I have commented on your channel but do enjoy so much watching your cooking and plan to try several of your recipes. I was so excited when you mentioned Rev. Konstantopolous. He filled in for the church in Richmond when I was a teenager and he was in seminary at Asbury. Kay is a doll and so sweet. They had lunch at my parents house one Sunday. Since then their son has been in the Frankfort church two times in concert. He is a great guy. Always enjoy your videos and wonderful to know that you also know Bro. Bill and Kay
Thanks for sharing Kay's recipe for Baklava. It looks so good , I might be safe with a tiny bite but would suffer eating very much. Those who don't have sugar diabetes enjoy my share. Fred
Hello Tom & Melissa- This recipe looks absolutely delicious. I have never had any Baklava of any kind. But The story that you told when making this is absolutely wonderful. Tom you do not need to apologize for breaking down a bit telling the history this recipe & making this video. The two of you & the stories of your recipes ares are priceless. To have a friendship as your dad did with this young man is wonderful. The recipe and story you shared will live on many years. That kind of history on a recipe can go on decades. That story & history will live on beyond my time. The people who make it & share it years from now will be blessed to know the story. Thank you for keeping your father & his dear friend & family going . Your dad & his friend are blessed & proud of you carrying on their story for years to come. Enjoy your week. 👏👏👏💕🌻
Tom, you have taught me something new! I want to make this for Christmas 2024! I have never had Baklava!❤❤ Wonderful stories, please share more about your European travels!
Baklava is absolutely one of my favorites! I first tried it about 20 years ago at a Greek gyro restaurant in Gainesville, Florida. I was hooked! 😂 I have tried to make my own over the years but it never turns out right. And we have owned and ran a family bakery cake shop for over 50 years! 😆 Thank you so much for sharing your recipe! I can't wait to try it! It will be a while though, I'm just out of a month long hospital stay and I am bedridden and cannot walk yet. But as soon as I'm on my feet and can get in the kitchen, I am going to make this along with several of your other recipes!😊❤🍽🙏
When I was a hairdresser, one of my clients brought us in some, she’d made. Being a retired military spouse, I loved tasting foods from around the world. Her’s was, also, pecan. Man o’ man, was that ever so good. I bought some one time from Sam’s and it was made with pistachios. It was good, but not as delicious as Mrs. Billy’s. She said it was so easy to make, but she passed before she could get us the recipe. From watching you today, make it, I will certainly be making it for Christmas, if not, before. Thank you so much for teaching the recipe. I know you, two, were the best teachers ever and all the students loved you. I know, I love watching y’all and find each recipe intriguing and I’m even a southern cook. ❤
Tom, may I call you Tom, I enjoy watching your videos and I want to stop and cook a pie or whatever you are cooking every time I watch your video. I want to tell you that I completely understand your getting choked up when you were telling about your dad in the hospital. I lost my mom December 6, 2021 and it is all so fresh to me. She was two months shy of 99. We thought she would live forever. Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that it’s okay. They are in Heaven and we know that we will see them again. Carry on with your cooking and keep us cooking. I just wish I had known about all these good recipes when she was living but I have two grown children and two grandchildren that I can feed. Keep up the good work.
I made this once in my life and said, never again. It sure does look good though. All of your recipes look so good, especially that chocolate cake! I kept yelling, "Cover that phyllo"!
Oh my goodness!!❤ Sounds wonderful, have to get me some phyllo dough (sheets). Great teaching video, thanks for sharing the recipe and printing it out in the more detailed comments. ❤ I know your video is old but no matter how long it is, we never get over losing our parents, our wound just scabs over and we go through all the various stages of healing. ❤ blessings!
The spray bottle to disperse the butter would be sooooooo much easier,thanks for that tip,I make it every year for my kids and neighbors,my very favorite,and,this is a big and..if some is leftover,haha it does freeze very well,which makes it easier to do a bit ahead of time,loved your video😊
Hello,my dear friends. Im so happy u are trying 💓 baklava, But... being greek And i have tryout many methods of this desert,.... I like to tell you something 1.cook it a little longer,till it gets golden on top. 2.on our syrup deserts we always Make that first,and let it cool totaly. 3.cut it before pouring the butter on top,and srinkle with water.then bake. When it comes out of the oven, Wait only 5 minutes so it don't steam, then pour The cold syrup around and in the cracks slowly. Thank you for sharing
I just stumbled upon your site and you 2 are awesome. I have done made the "Senate Bean Soup". It is delicious and still eating on it. Baklava will be my next project to do cuz....I love BAKLAVA! Wish me luck and I'm so glad I found ya'll. I'm from Virginia. Most of my family is in Front Royal, VA. I so love Southern food. I'm so glad I found you! I can't get enough of your videos. Keep up the good work and I'll keep making your recipes for sure. You explain things to where I can understand. I appreciate that so much. Thanks again and have a blessed day 🙏. I'm going to keep watching and supporting for sure. ❤
Its a lot simpler than i thought but i can see itll be time consuming. SO worth it though. This is my absolute favourite sweet and when i get to where im going and start cooking like crazy, i doubt ill share much of this
First of to God be the glory. And I thank him for people like yall wish I could talk on the phone to share stuff with but anyways God bless and keep up the good work Tommy Evans from va
My children’s farther came from Greece. We brought his sister to America in the mid ‘70s. We were blessed with her dishes, bread and desserts! OHPA! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe 💕🙏🙏
Oh I absolutely love baklava 🥰 I'm definitely making this for 🤌🏻 Our Christmas my son will love it I think I'm going to mix together Walnuts/pistachios/pecans👌 Tku for sharing this recipe 😋
Good job my friend, sorry to say I am never going to be able to have this cause I am diabetic, but sure enjoyed watching you all eat away thank you and Happy Holidays
I made Baklava one time, I thought it was work! I love watching you two, however I am thinking about stopping, because you are making me want to cook more yummy stuff. 😂 Thank you for your videos.
Do not apologize for being emotional! It shows you're a compassionate human being!
Food can connect us to some sweet, sweet memories!
Brush long strokes of butter. Brush it like you are painting a house. Don't forget long strokes prevents puddles.
Mmmm butter puddles ❤
I can’t help myself! I can’t stop watching your videos! There’s something about Tom’s voice that is like a warm hug. Both Tom and Melissa are delightful. And I also am a fan of how Tom scrapes the bowls, etc. lol.
Hello! I discovered your channel a few days ago and I love watching you cook and bake and hearing your wife in the background. You two have to be the sweetest couple ever!! I was so excited to come upon your Baklava episode as I was born in Greece and even though I grew up in the US, I have kept to my Greek heritage and love for my beautiful country. I scrolled through the comments for this episode before I started typing and I have to say that the tone of some of the commenters sounded quite rude to me. Greek ladies are very proud of their own version of Baklava, as it has
been taught by example from their
mothers and yiayias!! And so, the Baklava you loving made in this episode was beautiful and I hope you have the opportunity to teach your children and friends. Continue making beautiful memories!! 💙🇬🇷💙
So sorry for your heart breaking loss. And never ever ever apologize for the emotions that come from loving your parents and good memories from the past.
LMAO @ 24:15.....OH DARN!?....lol....While this is might be time consuming for the steps....I TRULY didn't think it might be this easy. I LOVE Baklava and buy it every chance I might get. And truth be told....looks like an INEXPENCIVE and knowingly DELICIOUS recipe......
You're father would be PROUD. Keep this tradition alive!
I am Definitely going to try this fruit cake. I'm not a big fan of fruit cake but my husband was. I lost him December of 2021. So, I'm going to make it for him, ( in memory). I have a feeling that I will like fruit cake after I make this recipe you have so kindly shared.
I wanted to tell you, back in the late 60’s to the 70’s our church choir director was from Greece. I lived in Lubbock TX, my hometown. His sister lived in Greece still. His name was Chris Galanos. I just loved he and his family. His sister came to Lubbock around Christmas one year. She made Baklava. Wow! It was so delicious. I will always remember this. His favorite song he led was, I Love You Lord….. ❤️🌼
I made baklava once. I got the recipe from my friend's daughter who is married to a man from Greece. I followed all the steps. She neglected to tell me not to pour hot syrup on hot baklava. I had a soggy mess & didn't know why. I was so disappointed. I've never made it again. Now thanks to this video I will make it again. Thank you so much ❤
No need to apologize, sir ! The fact that your have feelings and emotions means that you are HUMAN !! Thank you for sharing this beautiful story and this DELICIOUS recipe !! Have a great dessert for the upcoming holidays. Peace !!
My family is from the middle east, Syria and Lebanon to be exact. The correct way to do the syrup is the syrup needs to be made first and it has to cool. When the golden colored baklava is done then you pour the cooled syrup over the hot baklava. The Greek, Syrian, and Lebanese baklava is done the same way. I'm sure the way you do it is the way your friends told you, however the traditional way is syrup made first then pour cooled syrup over golden brown baklava. Also when you are cutting before you cook, it is cut all the way through.
That is how we do it in jordan slso
I am Russian/Greek Orthodox lady and this sweet has been a part of my experiences for many years. I am 74 years old and a convert to Orthodoxy from a my young 20s. I know you are serving for Christmas but it is made for many occasions, like Feast Days, Name Days, and Pascha (Easter) for sure as well as Christmas when we break the Fasting periods. I am going to make this for Christmas this year, God Willing!!!! I have been quite unwell for the past couple of years but hope and pray to muster the courage to make this soon. Thanks for sharing and God Bless you and your loved ones. Ruth Catherine in Maryland, USA
Oh Ruth Catherine, you are just the sweetest thing! I'm praying for you right now to be well enough to make and enjoy baklava this Christmas. And I will agree that it's too delicious to only have once a year!
I sure pray for your health to improve steadily! Thank you so much for watching our channel and videos. We really appreciate it!
I’ve made baklava; the easiest way to spread butter is put the melted butter in a spray bottle and friend of mine is Greek, she uses a spray bottle specifically for baklava it shortens the time of creating the dish. Just wanted to share the tip. Awesome yummy videos you create
Great tip! That's a wonderful idea. Baklava is such a wonderful treat, too! It's good year-round as far as we're concerned. Thank you so much for watching our channel.
@@comesitatmytable9044 your welcome
Is there anything you don’t make? I never, ever thought I would see someone make Baklava! Let alone a man who loves to cook from Kentucky! Who knew?!? Such a special dessert with such special memories attached!
May God continue to bless you and yours in the years to come. Your children are truly blessed as were your students. I know, since I’m a retired teacher as well who taught students with both learning disabilities and students with severe developmental disabilities for almost 30 years and would never have chosen any other profession on earth!
I feel so honored to have caught this video today and can’t believe I could actually make Baklava! And I thought the store bought Baklava was so delicious! Can you imagine if I made some homemade?!? Thank you! And may both of you have a very Merry Christmas! 🎄🎄
I am sorry your Dad passed. Grief is a journey we all travel in different ways. Bless you.
Thank you!!! I've always been intimidated by this dish... it seemed so complicated. I think I can, I think I can...
What a team you both are! The instructions cannot be beat and Melissa, you really know how to work a camera. Thanks too for all the ingredients listed. Can't wait to make this. Thanks to Bill and Kate for this authentic recipe. It's beautiful to have such fond memories of you dad and his love of his best friends and his Greek baklava. ❤
Leftovers are so yummy 😋!!
We never get all your recipes before another channel butts in
@@jamesbacon7415Your UA-cam settings are probably on Auto play. You can change that in the settings but for some reason UA-cam will automatically revert back to it so I just go back & reset it every time it does that.
Hope that helps.
Never apologize for your genuine emotions. Some people only get in touch with their own emotions by being drawn in by the emotions of others. For the rest of us, when not carried to extremes, emotions like you expressed, Tom, usually touch our hearts and tend to make us more compassionate and better people. For those for whom this doesn't happen I feel sorry for them. Compassion is supposed to be part of us. It helps us to value other people and appreciate their circumstances. I appreciate that you did not stifle your emotions. Yes, appropriately you contained them but not stifled them. I think that by sharing your memories associated with your father and those good friends you made the episode better. Thank you.
Now on to the baklava. I have made it at Christmas time for many years. Although you did not express it this way I think you feel it. Making baklava is a labor of love. It is quite time consuming especially when you add in all of the waiting time. Overall, though, I think it's worth it. My family and friends certainly do. Baklava, fudge and peanut brittle are EXPECTED around here.
In the recipe from your friend did she specify a particular type of honey? Different honeys taste different. Some are deep and bold in flavor. Some are a bit sweeter yet at the same time seem lighter. Which was recommended? Have you found it easily accessible? Which do you use? I agree with you about cutting the diamond shapes. IF I was really trying to impress someone who knew a lot about Greek culture and baklava I would probably make the effort to do the diamonds, otherwise I'm with you. It's all squares. I did notice you are fairly generous in the size of your squares. I thought, and appropriately so, baklava was cut into smallish pieces because it is so rich. As good as it is one bite can give you sugar overkill. As loud decibels are to hearing baklava is to your taste buds and sugar consumption. Too much is too much.
...... At least for 15-30 minutes until you've recovered from over sweetness and go back for more. It is too good to act with really good sense. As long as it is there most people will, almost must, go back for more. Thanks for going through it step by step. I have tried to get several people to make it but they think it is far too complicated. Your video shows that is not the case. It is, as you said, a process, not really complicated at all. Reading a recipe it might easily appear so. By sharing this video I think I will be able to convert a few scaredy cooks.
I know you come to Florida each year. If you have never been to Tarpon Springs you NEED to put it on your to do list this year. I will even meet you there and take you for a Greek Salad you will never forget and send you home with Baklava cheese cake from HELENA’S bakery. Hope you read the comments on your older videos. Also if you spray your measuring cup with cooking spray your honey will glide out. I am of the cold syrup on hot Baklava persuasion myself lol but I don’t think you can hurt the taser either way.
As a Greek person myself allow me to make some corrections and offer a few tips. When you say you must allow the baklava to cool 100% in order to pour the hot syrup is only half truth. The preferred method we all use is pouring cold syrup over the hot baklava that comes out of the oven. I always make my syrup from the day before or the morning of. Once the baklava comes piping hot out of the oven that's when you pour over the cold syrup.
Both methods work just fine but it has to be either hot syrup and cold baklava or cold syrup and hot baklava. It is false when you're telling your viewers that they cannot do it one of those ways. There is no point waiting hours for it to cool down when you can make your syrup in advance, let it come to room temperature and then pour it over the hot baklava. As well I would like to tell everybody that the colour was a little bit off and that it needed a little bit longer in the oven. However perhaps it was the lighting over the baklava that made it look so pale. It should be more of a golden colour.
0:04 I was thinking the same thing. When it came out of the oven I thought oh that’s not quite done and I thought he’d put it back in a while longer. I also cook mine at a higher temperature. Sometimes if I’m in a hurry I’ll throw the broiler on to make it golden brown. Also I never use that much syrup but that’s just our preference over the years.
Right! he has the ingredients right, but the execution is a bit off
Critics...they come out every crack and corner. But I don't see their video.
@@judycarpenter5258 are you serious right now. There's no criticism. I think if somebody is going to be bold enough to post a video with the recipe they should at least have the decency to make sure that it is being properly presented. I'm all for variations but there are certain things that are non-negotiable. Have a wonderful day.
I thank you so much. I’m going to try this recipe. Have you ever tried to cut the recipe in half and make a smaller pan.
I REALLY ENJOY YOUR CHANNEL AND YOU DON'T HAVE TO APOLOGIZE FOR ANYTHING THAT IS HOW YOU REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES ABOUT SOMEONE YOU LOVE GOD BLESS LOVE YOU TO LIFE ITSELF
I HAD AN AUNT MY MOM"S SISTER THAT LIVED IN WHEELING WVA WE WOULD GO VISIT HER & HER FAMILY WHEN I WAS A CHILD GROWING UP WVA IS A BEAUTIFUL STATE.
Love Baklava. Never would have thought to make it myself. But you made it look so easy. Can’t wait to try it. Thanks for the video and recipe and the beautiful story behind it all!
You have so much love for your Dad... sometimes it leaks out of your eyes. ❤
You both are so very loving. Please don’t ever feel the need to apologize for feeling the loss of a loved one. The memories we have made with loved ones will always be tied to things we experience. Thank you for sharing this experience with us. I’m so sorry for your loss! Blessings
Oh my gosh!! I'm making the baklava. Just made that wonderful syrup. I could eat that by itself. Keeping my fingers crossed it turns out like yours!
I understand when you lose someone close. Your a strong person to be able to video and make your dishes. Thank you 🙏 😊
I’m sorry for the loss of your father. I’ve lost both my parents and it’s hurts for a long time. Never be embarrassed for expressing your loss.
I’ve had real Baclava. It is delicious but that is complicated. Thanks for sharing your recipes.
I worked at a large dentist office and the man who was in charge of the dental laboratory where they could make dentures and make repairs was Greek and his wife made Baklava and he brought some in and I tried it and I thought it was one of the most delicious sweet treats I ever had. I also learned about Poviticia which is a bread stretched very thin layered with ground nuts and butter and sugar and rolled up. Those were two ethnic treats that I love and the first one is Greek and the second treat is Croatian. I’m Irish, English on my dad’s side and French, Swedish on my mother’s and they didn’t ever make any ethnic food. Nobody in my family were great cooks. I love other nationalities foods. That is the beauty of America we can enjoy all groups of people and their special foods.
I am searching for something my former mother in law made that sounds like the Croatian one you described. I think UA-cam will have my answer. I didn’t have a name- she called it nut cake and my recipe got lost. She is in heaven. Thanks.
Love, Love, Love Baklava!!!!! I am so Thankful that you all have shown us how to make it.
Merry Christmas to you Melissa, Tom, & you're family. God Bless All & May The Spirit of the Lord Indwell you're Home!!
🎄♥️✝️👑🎉
My mom use to make this, and because I was young when my mom went home to be with the Lord, I never thought to pay attention to how she made it.
Never apologize for how your heart feels. I adore that you had that special bond with your Father. I was not blessed with that. I do not envy anyone for that. I just enjoy seeing true family love.💗
I make Baklava with walnuts. An Assyrian woman taught me. ❤❤
What a beautiful video this was. I loved the baklava and how to make it, but I also loved the story that you shared with us. Tom, I think that your dad is enjoying your baklava with you, your family and friends. P.S. I'm on my way, fork in hand. Thanks
I had a baby sitter/ neighbor who was Greek and she showed me how to make it and we love it. My friend has since passed away and I cherish all these memories and special times with her.❤❤❤😢😢😢 I always used unsalted butter.
Never apologize for the emotions God gave you!!
My husband was half Armenian. I learned how to make baklava right away, after having it at Greek town in Detroit Michigan. They didn't use cinnamon or cloves. They did use a touch of allspice and added a dash of lemon juice in the honey syrup. Less sugar in the syrup. And do cut it in parallelogram shapes. Straight on the long sides and at an angle on the short sides.
Thank you so much for your great tutorials, they are great even for this 82 year old. Always something to learn.
Sorry for your loss 😢Thankfully God gives us peace in time to mend our broken hearts and the Best thing is all the Wonderful Memories we have forever ❤️ I know this isn’t the present since this is August of 2023, but my thoughts for you and your family the same. I hope your good friend Kay is watching! Is there anyone that doesn’t Love Baklava! I worked with a Lady who was from Greece so we were always Blessed with amazing delicious Greek Goodies. Cabbage rolls are really good also, besides other recipes. There really isn’t any Greek food that wouldn’t be Amazing 😋 Thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe. I have never been privileged to watch someone make it so now I will feel more confident that I could actually make Baklava which is my family’s favorite also. Thank you again🙏 I love watching your videos!! I save all of them!! Be Safe and Well❤Also you make everything look so easy!! Thank you!
You should never apologize for your feelings, especially when it’s because you’re missing a loved one!❤
I have a quick story to share, inspired by the story of your Greek Baklava friend. I met an older couple this past winter that shared a “mom” story and showed me a picture of his mothers headstone. On the back side of her headstone was her famous Christmas Cookie Recipe. Then my friend shared “the rest of the story” with me. When his mother was alive, EVERYONE would ask hiis mom for her CHRISTMAS COOKIE recipe….. Her response was always, “Over my dead body!” Thus the recipe on her headstone. I will be trying your Baklava. Thank you for sharing. >^..^< Debi in Montana
Haha. Great one.
Can you share the cookie recipe please?
That’s adorable! And funny! What a great sense of humor!
We enjoy watching your videos….we cook much the same. We live in Kentucky. We have been Pastoral friends with Bill K and Kay for many years….that made this video extra special! Thank you and God bless!
Even though it is months later, my sincere condolences for the loss of your father. I have to tell you that I really enjoy your videos with such detail and sentimental stories that you share. You make a great team! I absolutely love pecans and my hubby loves honey, sounds like a match made in heaven! I’ve never tasted or even thought about making it but my mouth is watering and this recipe is a must for me to make. Thank you for sharing! Not sure if you already have a video for pecan pie but if not, please consider it! Yum!!
Thank You both for this lovely recipe and the way you take the trouble to explain every step. Would be great to see the woman behind the camera 🥰
I have made a few appearances but I'm much more comfortable behind the camera. I think I'd be a nervous mess trying to cook with it being recorded! We really do appreciate that you are watching our channel.
When I worked at the doctor's office, we had a patient who was Greek and he always made us a Greek Baklava every Christmas.
Oooh! That’s nice!
This is how I make mine except I cut it diagonally to get the diamond shape. I don’t make a syrup but heat honey and pour over after taking it out of the oven. It’s always best the next day. I always get compliments saying it’s better than what people have had from Greek town in Detroit.
I really appreciate the nativity scene.
My daddy and I made bakalava when he was in his 90's, We had so much fun together and it took us almost all day to make it! 😁I've never seen another recipe like it. When we made the syrup, we boiled a whole orange for a few minutes,
Tom, I like it when you show your feelings. Life matters! I’m sorry for your loss. You’re a very kind and giving person, as is your wife, Melissa. Have a blessed day… ❤️🌼🌸🌻
Your emotions honor those you loved. Thank you for not editing. I do the same.
Don’t ever apologize for showing emotion ❤God bless you for making such a special dessert for us! Thank you 🙏
Great video. We ate baklava in a trip to Israel about 10 years ago. It was heavenly. I’ve made it about three times it’s worth the work. Thanks!
I've only been watching your videos for a couple months now and came across this one today. I can so see the teacher side that comes out in each video. I love how easy and step by step for us visual learner's. Tom is awesome, I love how emotional he gets talking about his loved ones. Real men cry❤. Melissa, you are such a blessed lady to have such an amazing cook. I love to cook and my children have always watched me but our oldest daughter married a "Tom" and we are blessed to get to enjoy his cooking. So happy God brought me to you sweet peeps table. God bless both of you. ❤
Thank you for such a nice, kind comment. You have no idea how encouraging your words are. I agree with you, it's really easy to see those teacher skills coming out when Tom makes these recipes. We try to make them so that anyone, even a brand new totally inexperienced cook, can follow and successfully recreate the dish. We appreciate that you have joined us at the table! Have a wonderful evening.
Every one cook different Melissa keep the recipes coming I never made it but I have had it delics.
My daughter in law is from Crete and she makes enough baklava and cookies for an army for every holiday! Yum. For those pesky air bubbles a long pin will take care of them. Thank you for making everything look so easy to make. ❤❤❤
Back when i had a family i made 24 huge pans of this every Christmas i miss it. Butter a metal spatula and go straight down to score it. This is a little different recipe than but looks yummy.
I’m so happy I found this video. I love Baklavah. This looks like time consuming and tedious work but not to hard to do. Thank you for sharing this
Tom and Melissa...this looks so delicious 😋 I'm 71 years old and I have never had baklava. Or okra. Always wanted to but never have. I love to cook and bake, so... I'm going to try this at Christmas 🎄⛄. Okra is another story. I've always been told it's slimy. I have to have all my food, well done 👍. Love you both. Love watching your videos. God bless you both. ❤ Kennetha... pronounced Ka-nee-tha and yes I'm named after my Daddy.❤
Kennetha, we are so tickled you are going to make this recipe. It's so good, I wouldn't wait until Christmas! If you have any friends or family to share it with now, they are going to be so happy to see you coming! This is a recipe our kids always request.
I've always wanted someone to show me how to make this!!! What a Christmas gift you've both given me. Wowza... thank you!!! 🙇♀️🎄😘
I'm soooooo excited!!
You are so welcome! You’ve made our day. Thank you for such a nice comment! Merry Christmas!
I have always wanted to make Baklava but was afraid to try! You make it look a lot less intimidating and I think I will try to make it!! Thank you so much’n😊😊
You both are a hoot! I am so happy I stumbled across you all. I always wondered how to make Baklava. Now I'm going to give the Greek version a shot. Plus your Derby pie! Keep up the cooking and baking! I'll keep watching 👀
Thank you for watching our videos. We really appreciate it. We hope you love these recipes.
I never liked Greek baklava because the syrup is too sweet.
No sugar at Christmas? Isn’t that forbidden in the Christmas story?! Praise Jesus for our Christmas goodies!
Oh Tom and Melissa, this is the first time I have commented on your channel but do enjoy so much watching your cooking and plan to try several of your recipes. I was so excited when you mentioned Rev. Konstantopolous. He filled in for the church in Richmond when I was a teenager and he was in seminary at Asbury. Kay is a doll and so sweet. They had lunch at my parents house one Sunday. Since then their son has been in the Frankfort church two times in concert. He is a great guy. Always enjoy your videos and wonderful to know that you also know Bro. Bill and Kay
Baklava is one of my favorite desserts
Sorry for your loss ❤
Thank you for sharing your recipe from your family friends❤
Thanks for sharing Kay's recipe for Baklava. It looks so good , I might be safe with a tiny bite but would suffer eating very much. Those who don't have sugar diabetes enjoy my share. Fred
Hello Tom & Melissa- This recipe looks absolutely delicious. I have never had any Baklava of any kind. But The story that you told when making this is absolutely wonderful. Tom you do not need to apologize for breaking down a bit telling the history this recipe & making this video. The two of you & the stories of your recipes ares are priceless. To have a friendship as your dad did with this young man is wonderful. The recipe and story you shared will live on many years. That kind of history on a recipe can go on decades. That story & history will live on beyond my time. The people who make it & share it years from now will be blessed to know the story. Thank you for keeping your father & his dear friend & family going . Your dad & his friend are blessed & proud of you carrying on their story for years to come. Enjoy your week. 👏👏👏💕🌻
Tom, you have taught me something new! I want to make this for Christmas 2024! I have never had Baklava!❤❤ Wonderful stories, please share more about your European travels!
Baklava is absolutely one of my favorites! I first tried it about 20 years ago at a Greek gyro restaurant in Gainesville, Florida. I was hooked! 😂 I have tried to make my own over the years but it never turns out right. And we have owned and ran a family bakery cake shop for over 50 years! 😆 Thank you so much for sharing your recipe! I can't wait to try it! It will be a while though, I'm just out of a month long hospital stay and I am bedridden and cannot walk yet. But as soon as I'm on my feet and can get in the kitchen, I am going to make this along with several of your other recipes!😊❤🍽🙏
When I was a hairdresser, one of my clients brought us in some, she’d made. Being a retired military spouse, I loved tasting foods from around the world. Her’s was, also, pecan. Man o’ man, was that ever so good. I bought some one time from Sam’s and it was made with pistachios. It was good, but not as delicious as Mrs. Billy’s. She said it was so easy to make, but she passed before she could get us the recipe. From watching you today, make it, I will certainly be making it for Christmas, if not, before. Thank you so much for teaching the recipe. I know you, two, were the best teachers ever and all the students loved you. I know, I love watching y’all and find each recipe intriguing and I’m even a southern cook. ❤
Oh WOW! I can't wait to make it. Thank you for the great video
Tom, may I call you Tom, I enjoy watching your videos and I want to stop and cook a pie or whatever you are cooking every time I watch your video. I want to tell you that I completely understand your getting choked up when you were telling about your dad in the hospital. I lost my mom December 6, 2021 and it is all so fresh to me. She was two months shy of 99. We thought she would live forever. Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that it’s okay. They are in Heaven and we know that we will see them again. Carry on with your cooking and keep us cooking. I just wish I had known about all these good recipes when she was living but I have two grown children and two grandchildren that I can feed. Keep up the good work.
Splendid! I'm going to.surprise our family this christmas. Thankyou from NZ for the recipe.
I made this once in my life and said, never again. It sure does look good though. All of your recipes look so good, especially that chocolate cake! I kept yelling, "Cover that phyllo"!
I love your comments about Greece and Greek baklava! I’m in Greece now watching your superb video. I agree. Greek baklava is the best!!
There is nothing better than Baklava any nut way!
It's a classic dessert/treat that we loved from the first bite. Thanks so much for watching our channel. We really appreciate it.
I was friends with a Greek family in high school. I loved all the Greek food! ❤
Oh my goodness!!❤ Sounds wonderful, have to get me some phyllo dough (sheets). Great teaching video, thanks for sharing the recipe and printing it out in the more detailed comments. ❤ I know your video is old but no matter how long it is, we never get over losing our parents, our wound just scabs over and we go through all the various stages of healing. ❤ blessings!
Love all your recipes enjoy listening to you as you demonstrate how to put everything together
I make Greek baklava during Christmas time as well. My recipe is almost the same as yours. You have me wanting to make some now.
One of my most absolute favorite desserts
I agree food holds great family memories
Mama wasa grear cook. Her pork roast and homemade yeast rolls were to die for.
This Greek Baklava recipe looks so delicious 😋Mr. Tom.
SORRY for loss of your dad Tom. Love the stories behind these recipes. Just love you both . A blessing to your viewer's. GOD BLESS. THANKS ❤❤
We appreciate those kind words. Thank you so much. We are grateful to have you watching our channel.
Thank you for sharing
Looks delicious
Your family is very blessed to have you to cook
The spray bottle to disperse the butter would be sooooooo much easier,thanks for that tip,I make it every year for my kids and neighbors,my very favorite,and,this is a big and..if some is leftover,haha it does freeze very well,which makes it easier to do a bit ahead of time,loved your video😊
I love the variety of things that you decide to make.
You compliment each other so well. One saying what the other couldn't at the right time.
It does happen after you've been married awhile! 😊 Thank you so much for the nice comment.
Hello,my dear friends.
Im so happy u are trying 💓 baklava,
But... being greek
And i have tryout many methods of this desert,....
I like to tell you something
1.cook it a little longer,till it gets golden on top.
2.on our syrup deserts we always
Make that first,and let it cool totaly.
3.cut it before pouring the butter on top,and srinkle with water.then bake.
When it comes out of the oven,
Wait only 5 minutes so it don't steam, then pour
The cold syrup around and in the cracks slowly.
Thank you for sharing
I just stumbled upon your site and you 2 are awesome. I have done made the "Senate Bean Soup". It is delicious and still eating on it. Baklava will be my next project to do cuz....I love BAKLAVA! Wish me luck and I'm so glad I found ya'll. I'm from Virginia. Most of my family is in Front Royal, VA. I so love Southern food. I'm so glad I found you! I can't get enough of your videos. Keep up the good work and I'll keep making your recipes for sure. You explain things to where I can understand. I appreciate that so much. Thanks again and have a blessed day 🙏. I'm going to keep watching and supporting for sure. ❤
Its a lot simpler than i thought but i can see itll be time consuming. SO worth it though. This is my absolute favourite sweet and when i get to where im going and start cooking like crazy, i doubt ill share much of this
I will always try to join you at your table.. My mouth always waters when I watch your videos.
I so enjoyed hearing you speak of your Dad, and your adventures in Greece!
My son who past away on Christmas day 2017 loved baklava and I would get him f some at bakery that had it.
So sorry for your loss. We lost our adult son, wonderful father of three, in a car wreck just 4 years ago god bless you!!
We lived in Greece for 2 1/2 years and Baklava was my favorite treat.
Thank you for sharing this heart-felt recipe.❤ Bless you!
Thanks so much for sharing this recipe Joann from Circleville ohio...Can't wait to make this recipe
First of to God be the glory. And I thank him for people like yall wish I could talk on the phone to share stuff with but anyways God bless and keep up the good work Tommy Evans from va
my mouth is watering at the mere thought of eating this.
My children’s farther came from Greece. We brought his sister to America in the mid ‘70s. We were blessed with her dishes, bread and desserts! OHPA! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe 💕🙏🙏
We have a Greek church that has a festival every year and I have ordered some homemade. Delicious.
Oh I absolutely love baklava 🥰
I'm definitely making this for 🤌🏻
Our Christmas my son will love it
I think I'm going to mix together
Walnuts/pistachios/pecans👌
Tku for sharing this recipe 😋
Good job my friend, sorry to say I am never going to be able to have this cause I am diabetic, but sure enjoyed watching you all eat away thank you and Happy Holidays
I made Baklava one time, I thought it was work! I love watching you two, however I am thinking about stopping, because you are making me want to cook more yummy stuff. 😂 Thank you for your videos.