Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g kunefe dough
- 250g unsalted butter
- 500g unsalted cheese (mozzarella or akkawi)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
- Pistachios for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large round baking pan
- Medium saucepan
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Grate the cheese and mix it with 250g melted butter.
3. Spread half of the kunefe dough in the bottom of the baking pan.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the kunefe dough.
5. Cover the cheese mixture with the remaining kunefe dough.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While the kunefe is baking, make the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and orange blossom water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. When the kunefe is done, remove it from the oven and pour the syrup over it.
9. Let the kunefe cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with pistachios.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
180°C
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of unsalted cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or akkawi.
- You can substitute orange blossom water with rose water.
Variations:
- You can add a layer of chopped nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, between the cheese mixture and the top layer of kunefe dough.
- You can add a layer of sweetened cream or custard on top of the cheese mixture before adding the top layer of kunefe dough.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese mixture is evenly distributed over the bottom layer of kunefe dough.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the kunefe into slices.
- Serve the kunefe warm for the best flavor and texture.
Storage instructions:
Kunefe is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat kunefe, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve kunefe on a large platter and garnish with pistachios.
Garnishes:
Pistachios
Pairings:
Kunefe is traditionally served with Turkish tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
None
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the kunefe is not golden brown after 30-35 minutes, you can broil it for a few minutes to achieve the desired color.
- If the kunefe is too dry, you can add more syrup or drizzle some honey over it before serving.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use unsalted cheese and butter to avoid the dish becoming too salty.
Food history:
Kunefe is a popular Middle Eastern dessert that originated in the city of Hatay, Turkey.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, salty, and nutty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve kunefe warm with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
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Region: Turkish