Knafeh Recipe: The Sweet Middle Eastern Delight

Introduction to Knafeh Recipe

Knafeh, also known as Kunafa, is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert beloved around the world. With its crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior, this dessert is soaked in a sweet syrup and garnished with crushed pistachios. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious treat, this Knafeh recipe will guide you through creating the perfect dish at home. Let’s dive into the steps and learn more about this iconic dessert.

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Why You Will Love This Knafeh Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: This recipe blends the sweetness of syrup with the saltiness of cheese, creating an irresistible flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Knafeh is often served during festive events, making it ideal for celebrations.
• Customizable Toppings: While pistachios are traditional, you can add other nuts or even drizzle some chocolate for a modern twist.
• Quick to Prepare: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this dish is straightforward and can be ready in under an hour.
• Cultural Experience: Enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern culture by preparing this authentic dessert in your kitchen.

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What is Knafeh?

Knafeh, also spelled Kunafa, originates from the Levant region, including Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan. It consists of shredded phyllo dough or semolina dough, layered with a cheese or cream filling, then baked until golden brown. Once out of the oven, it’s drenched in a sugar syrup infused with orange blossom or rose water for that distinctive Middle Eastern touch. The dish is typically garnished with crushed pistachios, adding a delightful crunch to the cheesy delight.

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Ingredients for the Knafeh Recipe

Ingredient	Quantity
Shredded phyllo dough (Kataifi)	500g
Unsalted butter (melted)	1 cup
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	300g
Ricotta cheese	1 cup
Sugar	1 cup
Water	½ cup
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon
Rose water or orange blossom water	1 tablespoon
Crushed pistachios	½ cup

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Instructions of Knafeh Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, dissolve sugar in water over medium heat.

2. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the lemon juice and rose water or orange blossom water, then remove from heat. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the shredded phyllo dough in a large bowl and separate the strands using your hands.
3. Pour the melted butter over the dough and mix well, ensuring all strands are coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Knafeh

1. Grease a round baking dish with butter.
2. Spread half of the buttered phyllo dough evenly in the dish to form the base.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the mozzarella and ricotta cheese together, then spread the mixture over the dough.
4. Cover the cheese layer with the remaining phyllo dough, pressing down lightly.

Step 4: Bake the Knafeh

1. Place the assembled Knafeh in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the top.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

1. Allow the Knafeh to cool slightly before garnishing it with crushed pistachios.
2. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best taste.

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Tips for the Perfect Knafeh

• Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Fresh dough will give you a crispier texture, enhancing the Knafeh.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on it in the oven to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
• Infuse the Syrup: For a deeper flavor, infuse the syrup with a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean.
• Cheese Substitutes: If you can’t find mozzarella or ricotta, Akkawi or Nabulsi cheese offers a more traditional taste.

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History of Knafeh

Knafeh, also known as Kunafa, has a rich history that dates back centuries in the Middle East, where it has been a symbol of hospitality and celebration. This dessert is believed to have originated in the Levant region, specifically in cities like Nablus, where it became known for its signature cheesy version. Over time, Knafeh spread across different Middle Eastern countries, evolving with local flavors and ingredients while maintaining its core elements. Today, it is a beloved treat enjoyed during religious festivals like Ramadan and Eid, as well as special occasions, showcasing the deep cultural roots and historical significance of this delectable dessert.

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Types of Knafeh Across Different Regions

Knafeh varies significantly from one region to another, with each place adding its unique touch to the classic dessert. In Lebanon, Knafeh is often made with a semolina dough base, creating a dense yet tender texture. The Palestinian version, particularly the one from Nablus, features shredded phyllo dough and salty Nabulsi cheese, resulting in a combination of crispiness and gooeyness. Turkish Knafeh, known as Künefe, uses shredded dough with an abundance of butter and layers of sweet cheese, baked until golden and drenched in a light syrup. These regional variations provide a delightful glimpse into the diverse culinary traditions surrounding Knafeh.

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Knafeh Recipe Variations Across Lebanon, Palestine, and Turkey

• Lebanese Knafeh Recipe: Lebanese-style Knafeh uses semolina dough, mixed with butter to create a slightly grainy crust. The cheese filling typically consists of a blend of sweet cheese, Akkawi, or even ricotta. Once baked, the dessert is soaked in a fragrant syrup made with orange blossom water, giving it a distinct floral aroma. Authentic Lebanese Knafeh Recipe
• Palestinian Knafeh Recipe: Known for the famous Nablus variation, this version uses shredded phyllo dough (Kataifi) and salty Nabulsi cheese. The dough is generously coated in clarified butter before being layered with the cheese. After baking, a rose water-infused syrup is poured over the crispy top, and it’s often garnished with crushed pistachios. Authentic Palestinian Knafeh Recipe: A Sweet Taste of Tradition
• Turkish Knafeh (Künefe) Recipe: The Turkish variation features layers of finely shredded dough mixed with melted butter. The cheese used is typically a sweet cheese similar to mozzarella. Künefe is baked in small individual portions and served hot, with a sugar syrup poured over the top. Some variations include a dollop of kaymak (Turkish clotted cream) or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added richness. Select Authentic Turkish Knafeh Recipe: Künefe Recipe.
  Authentic Turkish Knafeh Recipe: Künefe Recipe

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Variations to Try

• Chocolate Knafeh: Add chocolate chips to the cheese mixture for a sweet twist.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle extra crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, between the layers.
• Fruit Topping: Garnish with fresh berries for a refreshing burst of flavor.

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What to Serve with Knafeh

• Arabic Coffee: The strong, slightly bitter flavor pairs well with the sweetness of Knafeh.
• Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea complements the rich, buttery taste.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or pistachio ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm dessert.

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Storing and Reheating Knafeh

• Storage: Knafeh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it up in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, or microwave briefly.

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Conclusion

This authentic Knafeh recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a special occasion or simply a sweet treat, the combination of crispy phyllo, gooey cheese, and fragrant syrup is irresistible. Follow the steps carefully, add your personal touches, and enjoy this delightful Middle Eastern dessert.

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FAQs about this Knafeh Recipe

References

https://urbanfarmandkitchen.com