This traditional Jewish dessert, Tayglach, is a honey-sweetened dough that is baked and then coated in a warm honey syrup. Infused with a touch of ginger and packed with walnuts, this treat is perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, there are a couple that you might need to seek out. Ginger, used in both the dough and the syrup, adds a unique depth of flavor to the Tayglach that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey. Walnuts add a necessary crunch that balances the chewy texture of the dough. If you don't typically stock these in your pantry, be sure to add them to your shopping list.
Ingredients for Tayglach with Walnuts
All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, gives structure to the Tayglach.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavener to help the dough rise during baking.
Ginger: Adds a bit of kick to the recipe and pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs: Provides structure and moisture to the dough.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together.
Honey: Main sweetener that also gives the Tayglach its distinctive flavor.
White sugar: Used in the syrup, adds extra sweetness.
Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and slightly bitter flavor to balance the sweetness of the recipe.
One reader, Kelcie Garner says:
The tayglach with walnut recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of honey, ginger, and walnuts creates a perfect balance of flavors. The crunchy texture and sweet taste make it an irresistible snack. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a unique and delicious treat.
Techniques Required for Tayglach With Walnut Recipe
How to prepare the dough: Combine the sifted flour, baking powder, ginger, and salt in a large bowl. Beat the eggs, egg yolks, and oil together, then pour the egg mixture into the flour and stir until combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few turns.
How to shape the tayglach: Divide the dough into 8 equal-size pieces and roll each piece into a rope about ½ to ¾-inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into ½-inch long pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
How to make the honey syrup: In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and ginger. Cook over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Raise the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the syrup reaches the hardball stage at 260 degrees F (127 degrees C).
How to coat the tayglach: Stir in the cooked tayglach and optional chopped nuts into the honey syrup and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes. Spoon the mixture onto a parchment-lined jelly-roll pan, spread the tayglach into one layer evenly over the surface, and let it cool.
How to cut and store the tayglach: Once cool, turn the tayglach over onto a large surface and peel off the parchment paper. Cut it into 1-inch squares and place them into little paper cups or candy foils. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
How To Make Tayglach With Walnut
This tayglach recipe is a traditional Jewish treat made with knotted pastries tossed with walnuts then boiled in a honeyed syrup until golden brown.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour
- ¼tspbaking powder
- ½tspginger,ground
- pinchsalt
- 3large eggs
- 2large egg yolks
- 2tbspvegetable oil
- 1cuphoney
- 1cupwhite sugar
- 1¼tspginger,ground
- 1cupwalnuts,chopped
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Sift the flour, baking powder, ginger, and salt into a large bowl.
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Beat the eggs, egg yolks, and oil together. Pour the egg mixture into the flour and stir until combined.
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Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few turns.
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Divide dough into 8 equal-size pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about ½ to ¾-inch in diameter. Cut ropes into ½-inch long pieces.
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Place on baking sheets and bake at 350 degrees F(175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes. The bottoms should be lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool.
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In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and ginger. Cook over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Raise heat to medium and bring mixture to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low and cook until the syrup reaches the hardball stage for 260 degrees F (127 degrees C).
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Stir in the cooked tayglach and optional chopped nuts and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.
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Spoon mixture onto a parchment-lined jelly-roll pan. Spread tayglach into one layer evenly over the surface. Let cool.
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Once cool, turn tayglach over onto a large surface and peel off the parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares and place into little paper cups or candy foils.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Calories: 128.67kcal
- Fat: 2.32g
- Saturated Fat: 0.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.49g
- Carbohydrates: 26.09g
- Fiber: 0.25g
- Sugar: 19.98g
- Protein: 1.89g
- Cholesterol: 38.62mg
- Sodium: 91.77mg
- Calcium: 11.19mg
- Potassium: 27.40mg
- Iron: 0.59mg
- Vitamin A: 15.40µg
- Vitamin C: 0.08mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Tayglach With Walnut
When preparing the tayglach, it's important to monitor the temperature of the honey, sugar, and ginger mixture closely. This mixture needs to reach the hardball stage, which is 260 degrees F (127 degrees C). This stage is crucial for the texture of the tayglach. If the mixture doesn't reach this temperature, the tayglach may not set properly and could be too soft. Conversely, if the mixture gets too hot, the tayglach could turn out too hard. Using a candy thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the dough for the tayglach in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to bake.
Efficient assembly: Enlist the help of family or friends to roll and cut the tayglach ropes. This will speed up the process and make it more enjoyable.
Organized workspace: Set up your work area with all the ingredients and tools you need before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Multi-task: While the tayglach is baking, you can start preparing the honey syrup. This way, both components will be ready around the same time, saving you time in the kitchen.
Streamlined process: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately and minimize the time spent on adjusting measurements.
Substitute Ingredients For Tayglach With Walnut Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture to the tayglach, which can complement the sweetness of the honey and sugar.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: This combination can provide the leavening effect needed for the tayglach dough, similar to baking powder.
ginger - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can offer a warm and slightly sweet flavor, which can work well with the other ingredients in the tayglach.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can provide a similar level of saltiness and can easily dissolve into the dough.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg): Flax eggs can act as a binding agent, similar to eggs, and are suitable for those following a vegan diet.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of tropical flavor to the tayglach and can work well with the other ingredients.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar level of sweetness and a distinct flavor that complements the tayglach.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can offer a slightly caramel-like flavor and can be a less refined alternative to white sugar.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor, which can work well in the tayglach recipe.
Presenting Tayglach With Walnut
Elevate the plating: When presenting the tayglach with walnut, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the beauty of the tayglach.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating delicate and colorful edible flowers to the plating. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the tayglach to stand out. By strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, you can draw attention to the intricate details of the dessert.
Garnish with crushed walnuts: Sprinkle a small amount of finely crushed walnuts around the tayglach to add a subtle crunch and a nutty aroma, enhancing both the flavor and texture of the dish.
Create a honey drizzle: Carefully drizzle a thin, artistic line of honey on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and create an eye-catching visual element that complements the tayglach.
Use elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for minimalist designs and high-quality materials to elevate the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Tayglach With Walnut
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making dough, grinding nuts, and blending sauces.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential tool for combining ingredients, whether it's for mixing batter, marinating meats, or tossing salads. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets, also known as sheet pans, are flat, rectangular metal pans used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. They are essential for even heat distribution and preventing food from sticking.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling pasta, and simmering soups. It's a versatile tool for stovetop cooking.
Jelly-roll pan: A jelly-roll pan, also known as a baking sheet with sides, is a shallow rectangular pan with raised edges. It's commonly used for baking sheet cakes, bar cookies, and roasting vegetables.
Candy thermometer: A candy thermometer is a specialized thermometer used to measure the temperature of sugar syrups and candy mixtures. It's crucial for achieving the right consistency when making candies and confections.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans. It prevents food from sticking to the pan and makes for easy cleanup. It's also handy for wrapping foods for steaming or roasting.
Storing and Freezing Tayglach With Walnut
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for tayglach with walnut recipe:
- Once the tayglach have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, place the tayglach in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen tayglach, remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature in their container. This may take several hours, depending on the size of your batch.
- If you find that the tayglach have stuck together after freezing, gently break them apart with a butter knife or your hands before serving.
- For best texture and flavor, consume thawed tayglach within a week of defrosting. Do not refreeze previously frozen tayglach, as this can negatively impact their quality.
- If you've stored the tayglach with walnuts or other nuts, be aware that the nuts may lose some of their crunch over time due to the moisture in the honey syrup. For optimal texture, consider adding freshly toasted nuts to the tayglach just before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Tayglach With Walnut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tayglach on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the texture of the tayglach and bring out the flavors of the honey and ginger.
For a quicker reheating option, use your microwave. Place the tayglach on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the tayglach to become tough and chewy.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover tayglach, try warming them up in a skillet with a small amount of butter or coconut oil. Heat the skillet over medium heat, add the tayglach, and toss them gently until they are heated through and slightly crispy. The added fat will give the tayglach a rich, buttery flavor and a crispy exterior.
For a more indulgent treat, reheat your tayglach with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Place the tayglach in a bowl, top with a scoop of ice cream, and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until the ice cream starts to melt. The combination of warm, gooey tayglach and cool, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you find that your leftover tayglach have become a bit dry, try reheating them with a splash of milk or cream. Place the tayglach in a microwave-safe bowl, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream, and microwave for 15-20 seconds. Stir the mixture and continue heating in 10-second intervals until the tayglach are heated through and have absorbed the liquid. This method will help to moisten the tayglach and restore their soft, tender texture.
Interesting Fact About Tayglach With Walnut
The Ashkenazi Jewish dessert tayglach is traditionally served during Rosh Hashanah and other Jewish holidays. It is made by boiling dough pieces in honey syrup and often includes nuts, such as walnuts. This sweet treat is a symbol of hope for a sweet and prosperous year ahead.
Is Making Tayglach With Walnut at Home Cost-Effective?
This tayglach with walnut recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are fairly common and affordable, but the quantity of honey and walnuts may slightly increase the overall cost. The recipe yields a delicious and traditional treat, making it worth the investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its taste and cultural significance. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a reasonable choice for a special occasion or a delightful indulgence.
Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The tayglach with walnut recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with 1 cup of white sugar and 1 cup of honey, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues like obesity and diabetes.
- The use of all-purpose flour provides minimal nutritional value compared to whole grain alternatives.
- The recipe is deep-fried, which can lead to the formation of harmful compounds and increase the overall fat content.
- The recipe lacks any significant sources of vitamins, minerals, or fiber.
While the inclusion of walnuts does provide some healthy fats and nutrients, the overall recipe remains relatively unhealthy.
To improve the recipe and make it healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of sugar and honey used, or replace them with natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup
- Instead of deep-frying, try baking the tayglach to reduce the fat content and avoid the formation of harmful compounds
- Incorporate more nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to increase the nutrient density and provide additional healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants
- Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive sugar
Editor's Opinion on Tayglach With Walnut Recipe
The tayglach with walnut recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of ginger, the richness of walnuts, and the sweetness of honey. The dough is beautifully textured and the cooking process creates a lovely caramelized coating. However, to enhance the flavor profile, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the mixture. Additionally, incorporating a hint of citrus zest into the dough or syrup can add a refreshing twist. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any dessert spread.
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Why trust this Tayglach With Walnut Recipe:
This recipe for tayglach with walnuts is a time-honored family favorite, passed down through generations. The combination of honey and ginger creates a rich, aromatic syrup that infuses the walnut-studded tayglach with irresistible flavor. The careful attention to detail in the instructions ensures a perfect result every time. Trust in the tradition and expertise behind this recipe, and savor the delightful blend of sweet, nutty, and spicy flavors in every bite.
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