Kunafa
Kunafa is possibly one of the most ubiquitous pastries across the Middle East—and one of the most intimidating to Western cooks because of the stringy, vermicelli-like kataifi pastry that is used to make it. In fact, this is such a simple dessert to make that it can be on the table within an hour of turning on the oven.
Traditionally, kunafa is made with akawi cheese, a salty Halloumi-like cheese common in the Middle East, but as it requires 48 hours of soaking time to draw out the salt, I have suggested the more readily available mozzarella, which gives a similar result.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 4
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F or 200ºC.
Step 2
Place the pastry in a bowl and pour over the melted butter. Use your hands to separate the strands and distribute the butter evenly among them.
Step 3
Pack half the buttery pastry into the base of an 8-inch (20-cm) round ovenproof pan, making sure some of the pastry rises up the sides. Press gently down all over with the base of a glass to ensure the pastry is packed down tightly.
Step 4
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella and ricotta. Spread the cheese mixture over the pastry in the pan and cover with the remaining pastry. Pack down again with the base of a glass.
Step 5
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes until crisp and golden.
Step 6
While the pastry is baking, make the syrup. Put the sugar into a saucepan with the lemon zest and juice and ½ cup (4 fl oz. or 120 ml) of water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes until the mixture reaches a syrupy consistency.
Step 7
Pour the syrup over the pastry as soon as it comes out of the oven, then allow to rest in the pan for 5 minutes before turning out on to a plate.
Step 8
Top with the chopped pistachios and rose petals, and cut into 4 slices to serve.
Recipe notes
Back to topSee Related Recipes and Cooking Tips
Warning: These New Recipes Might Convince You to Buy More Cookbooks
If you like to try a recipe before you commit to purchasing a cookbook, you’ve come to the right place.45 Ramadan Recipes to Fortify You and Break Your Fast
Nourishing Ramadan recipes—including salads, soups, and sweets—to help you stay energized during your fast.
