Dessert

Kunafa

A popular Middle Eastern dessert that comes in various regional variations. It is known for its unique combination of crispy layers of shredded phyllo dough or semolina dough, often layered with sweetened cheese, nuts, or a semolina mixture. The entire dessert is typically baked or fried until golden and then soaked in a sugar-based syrup, sometimes flavored with rose or orange blossom water.

Recipe’s Video

Recipe’s Video

Palestinian cuisine offers a variety of delightful desserts, often featuring a combination of nuts, spices, and sweet syrups. One popular Palestinian dessert is “Knafeh” (also spelled Kunafa or Konafa). Knafeh comes in various regional variations, but a common version involves layers of shredded phyllo dough or semolina dough, filled with sweetened cheese or a mixture of nuts, and then baked until golden. The whole dessert is then soaked in a sugar-based syrup.

Here’s a basic recipe for making Palestinian Knafeh:

Ingredients:

For the Base:

  • 1 pound (about 450g) shredded phyllo dough or semolina dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups of sweetened cheese (such as Akkawi or mozzarella), shredded
  • 1 cup of finely chopped mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)

For the Sugar Syrup:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: a splash of rose or orange blossom water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a large bowl, mix the shredded phyllo dough with melted butter until well coated.
    • Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan to form an even layer.
  2. Add the Filling:
    • Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the dough layer.
    • Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top of the cheese.
  3. Cover with the Remaining Dough:
    • Cover the cheese and nut layer with the remaining shredded dough mixture, pressing it down gently.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
  5. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
    • While the Knafeh is baking, prepare the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
    • Optional: Add a splash of rose or orange blossom water to the syrup.
  6. Pour the Syrup:
    • Once the Knafeh is done baking, remove it from the oven.
    • Pour the sugar syrup evenly over the hot Knafeh, allowing it to soak in.
  7. Serve:
    • Allow the Knafeh to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or diamonds.
    • Serve warm and enjoy!

Knafeh is often enjoyed with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. The combination of crispy layers, sweet cheese, nuts, and aromatic syrup makes it a delightful Palestinian dessert.

Leave a Reply