Discover the perfect Knafeh recipe, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert made with delicate, thin noodle-like pastry layered with gooey cheese and drenched in aromatic syrup. This classic recipe guides you through the process of creating this sweet treat that’s crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Ideal for special occasions or a delightful indulgence anytime!

Ingredients:

- 500 grams of Knafeh pastry (or shredded phyllo dough)

- 250 grams of unsalted cheese (such as mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and ricotta)

- 100 grams of melted butter

- 1 cup of sugar

- 1 cup of water

- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon of rose water (optional)

- 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water (optional)

- Chopped pistachios for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Syrup:

  - In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  - Add lemon juice and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. If using, add rose water and orange blossom water. Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare the Knafeh:

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

  - Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar size dish with butter.

  - Shred the Knafeh pastry into small pieces and place in a large bowl. Mix in the melted butter until all pieces are coated.

  - Layer half of the buttered pastry in the bottom of the prepared dish, pressing it down gently.

  - Grate or crumble the cheese and spread it evenly over the pastry layer.

  - Top with the remaining pastry, pressing down gently to compact it.

Bake the Knafeh:

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Add the Syrup:

  - Remove from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot Knafeh.

  - Allow it to soak in for about 10 minutes before cutting into pieces.

Garnish and Serve:

  - Garnish with chopped pistachios before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

This Knafeh recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests with a delectable Middle Eastern treat.

Nutritional values

For the Knafeh:

500 grams of Knafeh pastry (or shredded phyllo dough)

 - Calories: 2,000

 - Carbohydrates: 300g

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 75g

Benefits: Provides a base of carbohydrates and fats. The phyllo dough is lower in fat compared to other pastry options, but still high in calories due to the added butter.

250 grams of unsalted cheese (such as mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and ricotta)

 - Calories: 800

 - Protein: 50g

 - Fat: 60g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium, which supports bone health. The fat content provides energy and helps with the creamy texture of the Knafeh.

100 grams of melted butter

 - Calories: 717

 - Fat: 81g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 1g

Benefits: Provides richness and flavor. Contains healthy fats but should be used in moderation due to high calorie and fat content.

1 cup of sugar

 - Calories: 774

 - Carbohydrates: 200g

Benefits: Adds sweetness but contributes high calories with no significant nutrients. Use sparingly in the diet.

1 cup of water

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Essential for the syrup and overall hydration.

1 tablespoon of lemon juice

 - Calories: 4

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds acidity and flavor. Contains vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

1 teaspoon of rose water (optional)

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Adds a floral flavor. Often used in small amounts, so it contributes minimal calories or nutrients.

1 teaspoon of orange blossom water (optional)

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Adds a citrusy aroma. Like rose water, it contributes minimal calories and is used for flavoring.

Chopped pistachios for garnish

 - 1/4 cup chopped pistachios:

 - 200 calories

 - Protein: 7g

 - Fat: 18g

 - Carbohydrates: 8g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

This Knafeh recipe combines phyllo dough with cheese, butter, and a sweet syrup, creating a rich and indulgent dessert. While it offers some nutritional benefits from the cheese and nuts, it is also high in calories, fat, and sugar. The optional flavorings like rose water and orange blossom water enhance the dessert's aroma without significantly altering its nutritional profile. The chopped pistachios add a nutritious touch with healthy fats and protein.