Walnut Paste

Walnut Paste Traditional Sherbet Dessert of Cyprus

What is Walnut Paste?

Walnut paste recipe, Cyprus walnut paste

**Walnut Paste** is one of the traditional desserts of Cyprus and is a special dessert made by cooking unripe green walnuts with sugar syrup. This dessert, which is especially served to guests on holidays and special occasions, is one of the indispensable flavors of Cypriot cuisine. Walnut paste offers a unique flavor by combining the slightly bitter taste of walnuts coated with a thin layer of sugar with sugar syrup.

Usually served with coffee or tea, walnut paste is part of the deep-rooted culinary culture of Cyprus and leaves a lasting taste on the palate with its rich aroma.

How to Make Walnut Paste?

Making walnut paste, Cyprus walnut paste recipe

Making walnut paste takes time and patience, but the result is delicious. Here is a step-by-step walnut paste recipe:

- **Materials:**
- 50 green walnuts (unripe)
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 liter of water
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt
- 3-4 cloves (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

- **Construction:**
1. Clean and peel the green walnuts. Put the peeled walnuts in a bowl of water and leave them for 5-7 days, changing the water every day. This process removes the bitter taste of the walnuts.
2. Wash the walnuts thoroughly with plenty of water, put them in boiling water and blanch them for 5 minutes. Then put the walnuts in cold water and wash them again.
3. Put the sugar and water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the walnuts and cook over low heat for about 1-1.5 hours.
4. Finally, add the lemon salt, cloves and cinnamon and cook for another 10 minutes.
5. When the walnuts are completely mixed into the syrup and the syrup thickens, your paste is ready. Pour into jars and leave to cool.

History and Origin of Walnut Paste

History of walnut paste, Cyprus sweets

Walnut paste is one of the traditional desserts of Cypriot cuisine and dates back centuries. Made especially in villages and rural areas, this dessert is prepared in advance to be served on special occasions as it can be stored for a long time. Like other sorbet desserts in Cypriot cuisine, walnut paste is made with walnuts, one of the rich agricultural products of the island.

This dessert is made in different variations not only in Cyprus, but also in Middle Eastern and Greek cuisine. However, Cypriot walnut paste is distinguished by its original recipe and the steps involved in making it.

Benefits of Walnut Paste

Walnut paste benefits, walnut dessert health benefits

Walnut paste is a delicious and nutritious dessert. Thanks to the walnuts and sugar it contains, it both energizes and provides many health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of walnut paste:

- Brain Health:** Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and strengthen memory.
- Source of Antioxidants:** Walnuts are rich in antioxidants and protect the body against free radicals.
- Energizing:** Walnut paste is a fast source of energy with the sugar and walnuts it contains.
- Heart Health:** Walnuts contain healthy fats that support heart health and balance cholesterol levels.

Where is Walnut Paste Consumed?

Walnut paste Cyprus dessert, where to eat walnut paste

Walnut paste is a dessert made in Cyprus, especially in villages, and served on holidays and special occasions. When you visit Cyprus, you can find this dessert in local patisseries or shops selling homemade products. Walnut paste is also served in traditional Cypriot homes all over the island and is considered a symbol of hospitality.

You can try this unique dessert of Cypriot cuisine at a local restaurant or café or buy it as a souvenir.

Walnut paste is one of the most special and traditional desserts of Cypriot cuisine. This delicious dessert, which can be stored for a long time, decorates the tables as a recipe reflecting the cultural heritage of Cyprus. Walnut paste is a must-try Cypriot dessert with both its flavor and health benefits.