Baking Azerbaijani Walnut Kete — A Taste of Tradition ✨
In the heart of Azerbaijani culture lies a pastry that embodies warmth, love, and the essence of tradition: the Kete (Kətə). This delightful creation is not just a snack; it’s a bridge connecting generations, filled with history and cherished memories. Today, we invite you to embark on this culinary journey and learn how to make these crispy and flaky delights, perfect for sharing with family and friends over a cup of tea or coffee.
✨ The Magic of Kete ✨
The moment you take your first bite of Kete, you are greeted with a golden, flaky crust that crumbles just right, revealing a rich and aromatic walnut filling infused with the warmth of cardamom. Each mouthful echoes the stories of those who have crafted this pastry over the centuries—stories of family gatherings, celebrations, and simple moments turned special.
🍽 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g cold butter (cubed)
- 100 g natural yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
For the Filling:
- 80 g walnuts (or roasted hazelnuts)
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 20 g soft butter
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp milk (for brushing)
👩🏻🍳 Preparation Steps
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Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, allowing the rich aroma of the butter to fill your kitchen.
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Knead the Dough: To this crumbly mixture, add the egg and yogurt. Gently knead until a dough forms. Don’t rush this process; allow the dough to come together with love. Once ready, wrap it in plastic and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will give it the perfect texture.
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Prepare the Filling: While the dough is chilling, it’s time to craft the filling. Finely chop the walnuts (or hazelnuts), and mix them in a bowl with sugar, ground cardamom, and optional cinnamon. The fragrance will tantalize your senses and prepare you for the magic that’s to follow!
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Roll out the Dough: After chilling, take the dough out and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s thin. Take care to maintain its evenness; this is where the flaky texture comes to life!
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Assemble the Kete: Spread the soft butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the walnut filling generously over the surface. With gentle hands, roll the dough tightly, embracing the filling within its buttery embrace.
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Slice and Brush: Cut the rolled dough into equal pieces, then transfer them to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the egg yolk mixed with a teaspoon of milk for that golden finish.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the Kete until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma wafting through your home will be nothing short of enchanting—an invitation to gather around the table.
A Tradition Worth Sharing
As you savor your homemade Azerbaijani Kete, remember that cooking is not merely about ingredients and instructions; it’s a way to connect with our roots, our families, and the countless stories waiting to be shared. With every flaky bite, you’re not only indulging in a treat but also playing a part in preserving a cherished tradition.
These pastries are meant to be enjoyed and celebrated. They are perfect for festive occasions or just as a delightful afternoon snack. So, gather your loved ones, and share the warmth of Kete—because food, after all, is the most beautiful language of love. 💛✨
Watch the video by Kənd Həyatı
Video “Baking Azerbaijani Walnut Kete — A Taste of Tradition ✨” was uploaded on 09/17/2025 to Youtube Channel Kənd Həyatı