Kunafa Recipe
Indulge in the rich and delightful world of kunafa, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its crispy layers and sweet, gooey center, this dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this kunafa recipe will bring a taste of the Middle East to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 500g kunafa dough
- 250g unsalted butter, melted
- 300g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 150g sugar
- 200ml water
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- Chopped pistachios for garnish
- Optional: 50g semolina for extra texture
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, while cooking time is about 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1/8 of the recipe), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 15g
– Sugar: 20g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, break the kunafa dough into small pieces.
- Pour melted butter over the dough and mix until well coated.
- Spread half of the buttered kunafa dough into a greased baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough layer.
- Add the remaining kunafa dough on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water together.
- Add rose water to the syrup and let it cool.
- Once the kunafa is baked, pour the cooled syrup evenly over it.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute mozzarella cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture. Additionally, you can use coconut syrup instead of rose water for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Kunafa pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delightful when served alongside a cup of strong Arabic coffee or cardamom-infused tea.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover kunafa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 150°C (300°F) until warmed through. Kunafa can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze before adding the syrup.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using old kunafa dough may result in a tough texture.
- Not enough butter can lead to dry kunafa.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the top.
- Skipping the syrup will make it less sweet and enjoyable.
- Not letting the syrup cool before pouring can make it soggy.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality.
- Ensure even layering for consistent texture.
- Experiment with different nuts for garnish.
- Let the kunafa sit for a few minutes before serving to absorb the syrup.
FAQs
What is kunafa made of?
Kunafa is primarily made from thin noodle-like pastry called kataifi, which is layered with cheese or custard and soaked in sweet syrup.
Can I make kunafa in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and bake them just before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
What can I use instead of rose water?
You can use orange blossom water or vanilla extract as an alternative to rose water for flavoring the syrup.
Is kunafa gluten-free?
Traditional kunafa is not gluten-free due to the use of wheat-based kataifi dough. Gluten-free options are available but require special ingredients.
Can I add fruits to kunafa?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like strawberries or bananas between the layers can enhance the flavor and add freshness.
Conclusion
This kunafa recipe is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, bringing a slice of Middle Eastern culture to your dining table. Its crispy exterior and sweet, cheesy center make it irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dessert, kunafa is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Kunafa Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g kunafa dough
- 250 g unsalted butter melted
- 300 g mozzarella cheese shredded
- 150 g sugar
- 200 ml water
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- Chopped pistachios for garnish
- Optional: 50g semolina for extra texture
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, break the kunafa dough into small pieces.
- Pour melted butter over the dough and mix until well coated.
- Spread half of the buttered kunafa dough into a greased baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough layer.
- Add the remaining kunafa dough on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water together.
- Add rose water to the syrup and let it cool.
- Once the kunafa is baked, pour the cooled syrup evenly over it.
