Pasteli: Super snack for children

Pasteli is traditional Greek product, produced in many different districts of the country. Every district gives a unique characteristic to this special product. For example people in Kea add to pasteli orange flavour in contrast with people in Rhodes who add some nuts in it.

But, what is pastel anyway and what makes it special for kids?

Pasteli is a great snack, made from sesame and honey, no sugar added.  It’s sweet taste makes it familiar to children, but if you consider that it is a low-GI product, you will realize that it is a healthy snack to provide to your child, everyday, accompanied by a fruit. Sesame is rich in calcium, which supports your child’s bones and tooth and is also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3) which are crucial for the brain. Honey on the other hand, provides to children a great variety of metals and antioxidants, but the most important thing is that it helps the regular bowel function that is often a great issue for young children.

How can you prepare this snack for your child?

Well that’s the easy part! You will need:

500 gr honey, 500 gr sesame and some nuts (optional)

Put the sesame in a pan, and roast it, until it becomes gold. Boil the honey until it starts to seethe and add the sesame (and some nuts if you prefer). Mix well and spread the mixture in a pan, in about 2 cm layer, after having put some baking paper in it. Cut into pieces and leave it to rest for about an hour.

Serve with fruits for your guests, or give it away to your child as a school snack.

Healthy and crispy!

Enjoy!

Maria Toumpi, MSc

Clinical Nutritionist - Dietitian