How to Make Delicious Pasteli Honey Sesame Seed Bars at Home.
There’s something truly magical about Pasteli Honey Sesame Seed Bars. These traditional Greek treats are a perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and chewy, giving you a snack experience that hits all the right notes without being annoyingly sticky. Picture biting into a piece of pasteli: the initial crunch, followed by the rich, sweet honey, and that slight chewiness that just melts away, leaving a refreshing hint of lemon. It’s the perfect companion to a cup of strong Greek coffee.
Making pasteli honey sesame seed bars is wonderfully simple, and the ingredients are as wholesome as they come. The star here is sesame seeds, which you’ll toast to bring out their nutty flavour and add a delightful crunch. Then there’s the raw Greek honey – I love using Attiki Raw Greek Honey for its deep, rich sweetness but you can use any of these premium honey jars to complete the recipe. And to balance all that sweetness, a bit of lemon zest adds a refreshing zing.
Trust me, these pasteli honey sesame seed bars paired with a cup of Greek coffee is a match made in heaven. Whether you need a midday pick-me-up or a sweet treat after dinner, these bars are a delightful reminder of the simple joys of traditional Greek flavours.
And if you’re more of a visual learner, don’t worry – there’s a how-to video below that will guide you through each step. Enjoy making and, most importantly, savouring these delightful pasteli honey sesame seed bars!
Pasteli (Greek Honey Sesame Bars)
Ingredients
- 200 grams sesame seeds
- 200 grams raw Greek honey Any honey you like can be used here but I've used Attiki Raw Greek Honey.
- zest of half a lemon
Instructions
- Add 200g of sesame seeds to a pan
- Stir the sesame seeds around so they toast evenly and don't burn.
- Once toasted, remove from pan and put the sesame seeds into a separate bowl.
- Add 200g of raw Greek honey to a pan and allow the honey to bubble.
- Once it bubbles, add the toasted sesame seeds to the honey and mix well.
- Add zest of half a lemon and mix.
- Pour mixture into a dish lined with baking paper, and press down with a wooden spoon to make an even base.
- Let cool before using your hands to press the mixture down even more firmly.
- Allow to cool and set for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Video
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are pasteli honey sesame seed bars?
Pasteli honey sesame seed bars are a traditional Greek snack made from toasted sesame seeds and honey, often with a hint of lemon zest. They are known for their crunchy, sweet, and slightly chewy texture.
2. Can I use a different type of honey?
Yes, you can use any honey you like. However, using a high-quality raw Greek honey like Attiki Raw Greek Honey enhances the authentic flavor of the pasteli.
3. How long do pasteli honey sesame seed bars last?
When stored in an airtight container, pasteli honey sesame seed bars can last up to two weeks. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crunchiness and flavour.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the pasteli?
Absolutely! Some popular additions include nuts like almonds or pistachios, and even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty twist.
5. Is there a vegan version of pasteli honey sesame seed bars?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using a plant-based honey substitute. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring you still get that delicious, crunchy, and sweet snack.
Yiayia Anna's Florina-Style 5-Star Tiropita: A Delightful Yeast-Infused Culinary Triumph.
