Lazas

Lazas refers to a type of baked pastry, often sweet, originating from various culinary traditions in the Balkans and surrounding regions. The specific ingredients and preparation methods can vary significantly by locality, resulting in a diverse range of lazas.

Commonly, lazas are made with a dough that can be unleavened or leavened, depending on the recipe. The dough is typically rolled thin and layered. Fillings are a key component and can include ingredients such as cheese, nuts, fruits, or sometimes even savory meats or vegetables. Sweet varieties often feature sugar, honey, or syrup to enhance their flavor.

The baking process usually involves arranging the layered dough and filling in a dish or pan and baking until golden brown and cooked through. Some lazas are finished with a glaze or syrup after baking to add moisture and sweetness. The texture can range from flaky and crisp to soft and moist, again depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.

Lazas are often enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack. They can be found in bakeries and homes throughout countries like Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Albania, with each region putting its unique spin on this traditional pastry. The term itself may have variations in spelling and pronunciation across different languages and dialects.