Kanafa Recipe is a delightful and iconic dessert from the Middle East, known for its crispy, golden pastry exterior and rich, creamy cheese filling. This sweet treat is often enjoyed during festive occasions and special gatherings, with its balance of textures and flavors making it an irresistible indulgence. The crispness of the pastry, combined with the gooey, sweet cheese, is enhanced by the fragrant sugar syrup that’s infused with rose or orange blossom water, giving it a unique taste and aroma. Perfect for dessert lovers, this Kanafa recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Lebanon or Palestine.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kataifi dough (shredded phyllo) | 500 grams |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1 cup |
| Akawi cheese (soaked and shredded) | 500 grams |
| Mozzarella cheese (optional) | 200 grams |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Rose water or orange blossom water | 1 tablespoon |
| Pistachios (crushed, for garnish) | 1/4 cup |
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the Kataifi Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, gently loosen and separate the kataifi dough. Pour the melted butter over the dough and mix thoroughly until every strand is coated.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- Soak the Akawi cheese in water for at least 1 hour to reduce its saltiness, changing the water periodically. Once done, shred the cheese and mix it with the mozzarella for extra creaminess (optional).
- Layer the Kanafa:
- Grease a round baking dish with some melted butter. Spread half of the kataifi dough evenly on the bottom of the dish, pressing it down slightly.
- Add the cheese mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Then cover with the remaining kataifi dough, pressing it gently to form a cohesive layer.
- Bake:
- Place the kanafa in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup (Attar):
- While the kanafa bakes, prepare the sugar syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, then add the lemon juice and rose or orange blossom water. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Add Syrup and Garnish:
- Once the kanafa is out of the oven, pour the cooled sugar syrup generously over the hot kanafa. Allow it to soak for a few minutes before garnishing with crushed pistachios.
Instructions for Presentation and Decoration:
- Presentation: Once cooled slightly, transfer the kanafa to a serving platter. It is best served warm, allowing the cheese to remain soft and gooey. Slice the kanafa into wedges, similar to a pie, for easy serving.
- Decoration: Garnish the top with a handful of crushed pistachios for a pop of color and crunch. You can also drizzle extra sugar syrup over the slices when serving for those with an extra sweet tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make kanafa with other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta if Akawi is not available. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well.
How do I keep the kanafa crispy after adding the syrup?
The key is to pour the syrup over the kanafa as soon as it comes out of the oven. The heat helps the dough stay crispy while absorbing the syrup.
Can I make kanafa ahead of time?
You can prepare and assemble the kanafa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it fresh and add the syrup after baking.
Is there a gluten-free version of this dessert?
Yes, you can substitute the kataifi dough with a gluten-free version available at specialty stores, or make your own shredded gluten-free dough.
What can I substitute for rose or orange blossom water?
If you don’t have rose or orange blossom water, you can omit it, but these flavors are what give kanafa its authentic aroma. A drop of vanilla extract could work as an alternative.
Conclusion:
Kanafa is a heavenly Middle Eastern dessert that has become popular worldwide for its rich textures and sweet, fragrant taste. This Kanafa recipe is easy to make at home and is sure to impress with its crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling, all soaked in floral-infused syrup. Perfect for celebrations or after-dinner indulgence, kanafa is a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between crunch, sweetness, and creaminess.
Whether you’re familiar with Middle Eastern cuisine or new to it, this kanafa recipe is an excellent choice to satisfy your sweet cravings.