Badambura – A Taste of Azerbaijani Tradition
Badambura is one of the most delicious and famous pastries of Azerbaijani cuisine. This delicate and flavorful dessert is a staple of special occasions and festive tables. Here, we will guide you through the process of making Badambura.
Ingredients
For the Yeast Mixture:
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1 teaspoon dry yeast
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 tablespoon flour
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1/3 cup warm water
For the Dough:
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1 egg (at room temperature)
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1 egg yolk
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A pinch of salt
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1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (or regular sugar with a bit of vanilla extract)
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1 cup melted unsalted butter
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1 cup warm milk
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5 cups flour
For the Filling:
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1/2 lb blanched almonds
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1/2 lb sugar
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1 teaspoon cardamom
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1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (can be substituted with coconut sugar)
Additional Ingredients:
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1 cup melted clarified butter (for brushing between dough layers)
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Powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation Process
Yeast Mixture:
First, prepare the yeast mixture. Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and add 1/3 cup of warm water. Stir until smooth and let it sit in a warm place to activate.
Dough:
While the yeast mixture is resting, melt the butter and warm the milk. In a large bowl, mix the egg, egg yolk, salt, vanilla sugar, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the warm milk and melted butter, stirring well.
Kneading:
Begin kneading the dough, slowly adding flour. Reserve a little flour for dusting. Knead until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and non-sticky. Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
Filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Finely grind the almonds in a food processor until they become powdery. Mix them with sugar, cardamom, and vanilla sugar, then set aside.
Layering:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into six equal parts. Keep the portions covered to prevent drying. Roll out the first portion into an extremely thin sheet (almost transparent). Try to shape it into a rectangle or square. Brush with warm melted clarified butter. Roll out the second portion and place it over the first, brushing it with butter as well. Repeat this process for all layers.
Baking:
After layering, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into approximately 1.5 cm thick slices. Gently flatten each slice in your hand and place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center. Seal the edges and shape them. Arrange the Badambura pastries on a baking tray with the sealed side down. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the bottoms turn golden. The top should remain pale.
Serving:
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy!
Experience the Taste of Rəmzioğlu Badambura
Badambura is not just a pastry; it is a cherished part of Azerbaijani culinary tradition. The process of making and enjoying this dessert brings families and friends together. Rəmzioğlu Badambura embodies the authentic taste and aroma of Azerbaijani sweets, offering you a delightful experience with every bite.