Knafeh Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to This Delicious Middle Eastern Dessert
Knafeh, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, is a sweet treat that's sure to impress. Its crispy shredded phyllo pastry, sweet cheese filling, and aromatic syrup create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. This comprehensive guide will walk you through making this delightful dessert from scratch. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed.
For the Cheese Filling:
- 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 500g (2 cups) ricotta cheese (or Akkawi cheese for a more authentic flavor)
- 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
For the Pastry:
- 500g (about 4 cups) fine shredded phyllo pastry (you can find this at Middle Eastern grocery stores, or use very thinly shredded phyllo sheets and carefully pull it apart)
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange blossom water (optional, but highly recommended for authentic flavor)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Cheese Filling:
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ricotta cheese (or Akkawi), sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon. Be careful not to overmix. If using, fold in the chopped pistachios.
- Set aside: Once everything is evenly distributed, set the mixture aside.
Assembling the Knafeh:
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with some of the melted butter. This helps prevent sticking.
- Layer the pastry: Evenly distribute half of the shredded phyllo pastry into the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently to create an even layer. You want a firm base.
- Add the cheese filling: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pastry layer. Make sure to distribute it to the edges for even cooking and optimal flavour.
- Top with remaining pastry: Carefully cover the cheese filling with the remaining shredded phyllo pastry, again pressing gently to create a smooth, even top layer.
- Drizzle with butter: Drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly over the top layer of pastry. This ensures a beautifully golden and crispy crust.
Baking the Knafeh:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Making the Syrup:
- Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, orange blossom water (if using), and lemon juice.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finishing Touches:
- Pour the syrup: Once the knafeh is baked, immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot pastry. This allows the syrup to be absorbed, creating a delicious moistness.
- Rest and serve: Allow the knafeh to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the syrup to fully permeate the pastry and cheese, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Knafeh:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
- Don't overmix the cheese filling: Overmixing can make the filling tough.
- Watch it carefully while baking: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your knafeh to prevent burning.
- Serve warm: Knafeh is best served warm, right after it's made.
Enjoy your homemade Knafeh! This recipe is a delicious journey into Middle Eastern cuisine, and the rewarding experience of creating this stunning dessert is as satisfying as the taste itself. Remember to share your culinary creation with friends and family—it's a dessert meant to be shared and savored!
