Pasteli – The Ancient Greek Energy Bar Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cut and cool: When nearly cool, cut into squares. Once completely cool, cut again if needed for cleaner pieces.
- 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
