Recipe and Guide: Kanufa, a Delicious Middle Eastern Dessert

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Recipe and Guide: Kunafa, a Delicious Middle Eastern Dessert

Kunafa is a delectable Middle Eastern dessert that combines crispy shredded pastry with a luscious filling and sweet syrup. This beloved sweet treat is a favorite during festive occasions and family gatherings. Here's a recipe and guide to help you create your own delicious kunafa at home:

Ingredients:

For the kunafa dough:

- 500 grams (17.6 ounces) kunafa dough (shredded phyllo pastry)

- 200 grams (7 ounces) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

- 300 grams (10.5 ounces) sweet cheese (such as akkawi or mozzarella), grated

- 200 grams (7 ounces) unsalted ricotta cheese

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

For the syrup:

- 250 grams (1 ¼ cups) granulated sugar

- 250 ml (1 cup) water

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

Optional toppings:

- Crushed pistachios or almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sweet cheese, ricotta cheese, sugar, and orange blossom water. Mix well until the filling is evenly combined. Set aside.

3. Grease a round or rectangular baking dish with melted butter.

4. Take the shredded kunafa dough and separate it with your fingers to loosen the strands. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the kunafa dough and mix gently until all the strands are coated with butter.

5. Place half of the kunafa dough into the greased baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer.

6. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the kunafa dough layer, leaving a small border around the edges.

7. Cover the cheese filling with the remaining kunafa dough. Press it down gently to create a smooth top layer.

8. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the kunafa, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the kunafa turns golden brown and crispy.

10. While the kunafa is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and orange blossom water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to thicken the syrup slightly.

11. Once the kunafa is golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

12. Pour the syrup evenly over the warm kunafa, allowing it to soak in.

13. Garnish the kunafa with crushed pistachios or almonds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

14. Allow the kunafa to cool completely before cutting it into individual servings.

15. Serve the kunafa warm or at room temperature and savor its delightful combination of textures and flavors.