Pistachio Kunafa

Pistachio Kunafa
Pistachio Kunafa

Knafeh with Pistachios

Experience the delightful taste of Knafeh, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, enhanced with the rich flavor of pistachios. This delectable treat combines crispy layers of thin pastry with a sweet, sticky syrup and nuts, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

  • 350 grams of Knafeh dough
  • 200 grams of unsalted butter, melted
  • 300 grams of ricotta cheese
  • 200 grams of crushed pistachios
  • 200 grams of sugar
  • 250 milliliters of water
  • 1 tablespoon of rose water or orange blossom water
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the Knafeh dough with melted butter until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, blend the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and half of the crushed pistachios.
  4. Divide the Knafeh dough into two equal parts. Spread one half evenly in a greased baking dish to form the base.
  5. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the dough layer and spread it evenly.
  6. Cover the ricotta with the remaining half of the Knafeh dough, pressing down lightly.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. While the Knafeh is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, and rose or orange blossom water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  9. Once the Knafeh is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the syrup evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in.
  10. Garnish with the remaining crushed pistachios and serve warm.

FAQs

1. What is Knafeh?
Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodles or semolina dough, layered with cheese or nuts, and soaked in sweet syrup.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Yes, you can use various nuts like walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference.
3. Is Knafeh served warm or cold?
Knafeh is best served warm so that the layers are crispy and the cheese is melty.
4. How can I store leftover Knafeh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.
5. Can I prepare Knafeh in advance?
Yes, you can assemble Knafeh ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
6. What kind of cheese can I use in Knafeh?
Traditionally, Nabulsi or Akkawi cheese is used, but ricotta is a great alternative.
7. Is it possible to make Knafeh without sugar?
While sugar is a key ingredient, you could use alternatives like honey or artificial sweeteners, but it may alter the flavor.
8. Can I make a gluten-free version of Knafeh?
Yes, using gluten-free Knafeh dough or substituting with other gluten-free options is possible.

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