Kunefe Recipe

A rich Turkish dessert with sweet syrup and cheese.

Kunefe, also known as Künefe, is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is particularly popular in Turkey. It is a rich and indulgent treat made from shredded phyllo dough, called kataifi, and filled with a special type of cheese, typically unsalted nabulsi or mozzarella. The dessert is then baked until crispy and golden, and finally soaked in a fragrant, rose-flavored syrup. Kunefe is famous for its contrasting textures and tastes, with the crispy outer layer giving way to a warm, gooey, cheesy center. It is often garnished with finely chopped pistachios, adding a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness to every bite.

The origins of Kunefe can be traced back to the Levant region, with various countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine laying claim to its invention. However, it is in Turkey where this dessert has become a culinary icon, especially in the southern region of Hatay. Kunefe is traditionally served hot and is a beloved part of many festive meals and celebrations. Whether enjoyed at a street food stall or a fine dining establishment, Kunefe is a testament to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Turkey. In this recipe, you will learn how to recreate this iconic dessert in your own kitchen, using readily available ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

• 500g shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
• 250g unsalted cheese (nabulsi or mozzarella, shredded)
• 250g butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. Once the mixture is boiling, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of rose water if using. Set aside to cool.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
3. Prepare the Kataifi: Place the 500g of shredded phyllo dough (kataifi) in a large bowl and gently pull apart the strands to loosen them. Pour 250g of melted butter over the shredded dough and mix well with your hands until the butter is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Assemble the Kunefe: Grease a large, round baking pan or Kunefe pan with some butter. Spread half of the buttered kataifi dough evenly across the bottom of the pan, pressing down gently to form a compact layer. Evenly sprinkle the 250g of shredded unsalted cheese over the dough. Cover the cheese layer with the remaining half of the kataifi dough, again pressing down gently to ensure it is compact.
5. Bake the Kunefe: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
6. Add the Syrup: Remove the Kunefe from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot dessert. The syrup should be absorbed quickly, making the Kunefe moist but not soggy.
7. Garnish and Serve: Allow the Kunefe to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with 1/2 cup of finely chopped pistachios. Cut into slices and serve warm. Kunefe is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still gooey.

Enjoy your delicious Kunefe! This rich and flavorful dessert is a perfect end to any meal, and it pairs wonderfully with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the best Kunefe possible. First, ensure that your kataifi dough is fresh and not dried out; otherwise, it won't achieve the desired crispiness. If your dough is a bit dry, you can moisten it slightly with a damp cloth before adding the butter. Secondly, if you can't find unsalted nabulsi cheese, mozzarella is a good substitute. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and isn't too salty.

Kunefe can also be made ahead of time. Prepare the dessert up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, just bake it as directed and add the syrup right out of the oven.

For a variation on the classic recipe, you can add a layer of finely chopped nuts (such as pistachios or walnuts) along with the cheese for extra crunch and flavor. Another option is to drizzle the finished dessert with a bit of clotted cream for even more richness. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Kunefe is a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!