Pasteli – The Ancient Greek Energy Bar Recipe

Introduction

Pasteli is a traditional Greek energy bar made from honey and toasted sesame seeds. This simple, naturally sweet treat offers a perfect balance of crunchy texture and rich flavor, making it a healthy snack for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 200 g Honey (7 oz)
• 200 g Sesame seeds (7 oz) (or mixed with any seeds and nuts)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 pinch Salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Shake the pan and stir frequently until the seeds are fragrant and lightly golden, about 3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
2. Step 2: In a non-stick pan, heat the honey over high heat until it starts to bubble, then lower the heat.
3. Step 3: Add the toasted sesame seeds to the honey and stir continuously for 7 minutes. For a softer texture, remove from heat after 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
5. Step 5: To check readiness, dip a teaspoon of the mixture in cold water; if it forms a small hard ball, it’s done.
6. Step 6: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly. Cover with another piece of parchment and roll out with a rolling pin to about 1 cm thickness.
7. Step 7: Allow to cool until almost set, then cut into squares. Let cool completely before cutting again if needed.
8. Step 8: Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Tips & Variations

• Try mixing sesame seeds with chopped nuts or other seeds to add different textures and flavors.
• If using raw honey, shorten cooking time to keep the bars softer and preserve nutrients.
• For added depth, toast the cinnamon lightly before adding it to the mixture.

Storage

Keep Pasteli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Reheat gently if desired to soften before eating, but it can be enjoyed as is.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other seeds or nuts instead of sesame?

Yes, you can substitute or combine sesame seeds with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for variety in texture and taste.

How do I know when the Pasteli mixture is cooked properly?

Perform a water test by dropping a small amount of mixture into cold water. If it forms a small hard ball, the mixture is ready to be spread and cooled.

Pasteli – The Ancient Greek Energy Bar Recipe

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Pasteli is a traditional ancient Greek energy bar made from roasted sesame seeds and honey, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. This simple, naturally sweet, and nutritious snack is perfect for a quick energy boost and can be customized with your favorite seeds and nuts.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 10–12 bars (depending on size) 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasteli Ingredients

• 200 g Honey (7 oz)
• 200 g Sesame seeds (7 oz) (or mixed with any seeds and nuts)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 pinch Salt

Instructions

1. Brown the seeds: Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 3 minutes until the seeds become fragrant and lightly golden. Be attentive to avoid burning.
2. Boil the honey: In a non-stick pan over high heat, add the honey and bring it to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat.
3. Add seeds and stir: Add the lightly roasted sesame seeds (and any other seeds or nuts if using) to the honey. Stir continuously for about 7 minutes. For a softer texture, stir for 5 minutes instead.
4. Add flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
5. Cook to desired consistency: Depending on the honey type and desired texture, adjust the cooking time. Raw honey may require less cooking, while regular honey might need longer.
6. Perform a water test: Take a teaspoon of the mixture and drop it into cold water. If it forms a small hard ball, the mixture is ready.
7. Shape the Pasteli: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the mixture onto it, cover with another parchment paper, and roll out with a rolling pin to about 1 cm thickness.
8. Cut and cool: When nearly cool, cut into squares. Once completely cool, cut again if needed for cleaner pieces.
9. Store properly: Place Pasteli bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Notes

• Stay attentive while browning seeds to avoid burning, which will impart a bitter flavor.
• The water test is crucial to ensure the right consistency of the honey mixture for a proper set.
• Pasteli can be made softer or crunchier depending on your preference by adjusting cooking time.
• Storing in an airtight container prevents moisture absorption and keeps Pasteli fresh longer.
• Feel free to experiment by adding other seeds or nuts for varied textures and flavors.

Keywords: Pasteli, Greek energy bar, sesame seed snack, honey snack, healthy snack, ancient Greek recipe, natural sweetener, homemade energy bar