Kunafa, also known as Knafeh, is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that will tantalize your senses. This flaky pastry, soaked in fragrant syrup and layered with cheese, is a true explosion of flavor and texture
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a decadent treat, kunafa is sure to impress. This recipe provides a straightforward approach to creating this delicious dessert in your own kitchen.
Unveiling the Magic of Kunafa
Kunafa boasts a unique combination of elements:
- Crispy Shredded Pastry: Traditionally made with kataifi dough, this recipe uses readily available vermicelli noodles, creating a similar delightful texture.
- Sweet Syrup: A fragrant sugar syrup infused with rosewater or orange blossom water bathes the pastry, adding a touch of floral sweetness.
- Creamy Cheese Filling: Ricotta cheese, mozzarella, or a combination of both provides a creamy counterpoint to the crispy pastry and sweet syrup.
- Pistachio Garnish: Chopped pistachios add a vibrant pop of color and nutty flavor to the finished dessert.
Gathering the Ingredients for Kunafa Bliss
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- For the Vermicelli Pastry:
- 2 cups (250g) vermicelli noodles
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- For the Syrup:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon rosewater or orange blossom water (optional)
- For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 ½ cups (375g) ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup (180g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- For Garnish:
- ½ cup (75g) chopped pistachios
The Enchanting Steps to Kunafa Creation
Now, let’s embark on the journey of crafting this delectable treat:
- Prepare the Vermicelli: Using your hands, crush the vermicelli noodles slightly. In a large bowl, combine the crushed vermicelli with melted butter and cardamom (if using). Toss well to ensure all the noodles are coated in butter.
- Craft the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater or orange blossom water (if using). Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Kunafa: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round baking dish (approximately 9 inches in diameter). Spread half of the vermicelli mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish, pressing down firmly to create a compact layer.
Incorporate the Cheese: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the vermicelli layer.
Top it Off: Sprinkle the remaining vermicelli mixture over the cheese filling, pressing down gently to create a final layer.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the kunafa for 25-30 minutes, or until the top layer becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Syrup Symphony: Once baked, remove the kunafa from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the top, allowing it to soak in.
Garnish and Enjoy: Let the kunafa cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped pistachios and savor the delightful symphony of flavors.
Tips for Kunafa Triumph
- For a richer flavor, substitute ghee (clarified butter) for the melted butter.
- If kataifi dough is available, you can use it instead of vermicelli noodles for a more traditional texture.
- Don’t overbake the kunafa. It should be golden brown and crispy on top, but the cheese filling should still be slightly soft.
- Kunafa is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be stored at room temperature for up to a day.
