Künefe (knafeh) Recipe

Ingredients:

• Kadayif Pastry (Kataifi): 500g (1 lb) kadayif pastry, fresh or frozen (if frozen, thaw completely)
• Unsalted Butter: 250g (1 cup), melted
• Cheese: 250g (about 1 cup) mozzarella, shredded, or a special künefe cheese (unsalted)
• Sugar Syrup:
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water
• Garnish: Chopped pistachios

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Round baking pan (9-12 inches diameter)
• Small saucepan

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Kadayif:
   • Gently pull apart the kadayif strands with your fingers to loosen them.
   • Mix the melted butter thoroughly into the kadayif, ensuring all strands are coated.
2. Assemble the Künefe
   • Divide the kadayif in half.
   • Press one half of the buttered kadayif into the baking pan, creating a compact, even layer that extends slightly up the sides.
   • Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the kadayif.
   • Top with the remaining buttered kadayif, pressing gently to create an even surface.
3. Baking:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
   • Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the künefe is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
4. Make the Sugar Syrup:
   • While the künefe is baking, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Stir in rosewater or orange blossom water (if using).
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Immediately after removing the künefe from the oven, carefully pour the hot sugar syrup over the top.
   • Allow the künefe to rest for 5-10 minutes to absorb the syrup.
   • Garnish with chopped pistachios.
   • Serve warm.

Variations:

• Künefe with Cream (Kaymaklı Künefe): Before adding cheese, spread a layer of clotted cream or heavy cream.
• Künefe with Banana: Add slices of banana between the cheese and top layer of kadayif.

Tips:

• Use the right cheese: For authentic flavor, try to find special künefe cheese (an unsalted melting cheese). If not available, mozzarella is a good substitute.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar used in the syrup.
• Serve immediately: Künefe is best enjoyed fresh and warm.