Strava

This is the ultimate in Kastellorizian sweets and is only made for weddings and name days. Strava derives its name from the oblique angle on which it is cut.

Syrup:
3 pounds honey
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar

Bring the ingredients to a boil. Set aside to cool.

Pastry:
1 cup olive oil
2 pounds plain flour
Water

Rub oil into flour and add sufficient water to make a soft dough. Knead for at least 10 minutes until dough is smooth in texture and whitish in color. Divide into 3 sections. Roll out fairly thin. Brush with olive oil. Combine filling ingredients. Sprinkle pastry all over with Nut-Coconut Filling and roll up firmly. Cut on oblique lines at approximately 3-inch intervals.

Heat oil and cook pastry for about 12 minutes. Place in colander to drain off surplus oil. Place Strava in honey mixture and leave for 10 minutes.

Makes 60 Strava.

Nut-Coconut Filling:
1 pound walnut pieces
1 cup shredded coconut
1 level teaspoon ground cloves
1 level teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 level teaspoon cinnamon
1 pound almond pieces
1 cup granulated sugar
Peanut oil (for frying)