Kunafa Recipe (Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

For the Kunafa:

• 250g kunafa dough (shredded filo pastry or kunafa crumbs)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 300g ricotta cheese or akkawi cheese (desalted)

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Sugar Syrup (Attar):

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

For Garnishing:

• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios

Method:

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup (Attar):

   • In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

   • Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.

   • Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

   • Add the lemon juice and stir for another 2 minutes.

   • Remove from heat and add the rose water or orange blossom water (optional) for aroma. Set the syrup aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Kunafa Base:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

   • In a large mixing bowl, separate the kunafa dough (or kunafa crumbs) into fine pieces. You can use your hands or kitchen scissors to cut the dough into smaller strands if using shredded filo pastry.

   • Pour the melted butter over the dough and mix well to ensure all the kunafa is evenly coated with butter.

3. Assemble the Kunafa:

   • Grease a 9-inch round baking dish with butter.

   • Divide the buttered kunafa dough into two portions: 2/3 for the base and 1/3 for the top.

   • Press the 2/3 portion of kunafa dough evenly onto the bottom of the baking dish, creating a firm layer.

   • In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta or akkawi cheese with the mozzarella cheese.

   • Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the kunafa base, leaving a small border around the edges.

   • Cover the cheese layer with the remaining 1/3 portion of the kunafa dough, pressing it down gently.

4. Bake the Kunafa:

   • Place the kunafa in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and crispy.

   • If needed, you can place the kunafa under the broiler for a minute or two to get a deep golden color.

5. Serve the Kunafa:

   • Once the kunafa is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the hot kunafa. Ensure the syrup is absorbed throughout.

   • Allow it to sit for a few minutes to soak up the syrup.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish the kunafa with crushed pistachios for a crunchy and colorful finish.

   • Slice into pieces and serve warm.

Enjoy this delightful and rich kunafa with its crispy layers, gooey cheese filling, and sweet syrup! It’s perfect for special occasions or a delicious treat.