Do you think you can cook the best baklava? Well, you have a chance to prove your skills at the first ever Baklava Bake-Off.
Launched this week at Balha’s pastry shop in Brunswick, the state government and the Australian Multicultural Foundation are calling for people to submit entries under two categories, home cooks and professional pastry chefs.
Those victorious don’t just get bragging rights, but cash prizes.
The competition will be judged by chef Shane Delia of Maha restaurant and a panel of food experts and Multicultural Affairs Minister Nick Kotsiras says it’s a chance for every culture to have a go at the beloved dish.
“The baklava is an iconic dish made by people from many countries and cultures including Greeks, Lebanese, Turkish and first generation Australians.
“It exemplifies the fusion of cultures that makes Victoria so inclusive and unique.”
Out of each category, ten are picked to compete in the semi-final on April 7, while the top 5 winners go through to the final.
The top 5 finalists will then have to bake their winning recipe at Federation Square for a fresh taste test from the judges.
Three winners from each category will be announced.
For those interested, entries close March 15.
Entry forms can be downloaded from the Australian Multicultural Foundation website (www.amf.net.au)