Kanafeh, also known as Kunafa or Konafa, is a treasured Middle Eastern dessert celebrated for its crispy exterior and sweet, cheesy interior. Egyptian Kanafeh is a standout variation, featuring shredded phyllo dough (Kataifi) layered with Akkawi cheese. This dessert is renowned for its unique texture and rich flavor.
Egyptian Kanafeh is made with crispy Kataifi dough, a gooey Akkawi cheese filling, and chopped almonds. It's finished with a syrup of sugar, water, and rose water, and garnished with crushed pistachios. The result is a delicious contrast of textures and flavors, with a golden-brown crust and creamy center.
Kanafeh has its origins in the Levant region of the Middle East and is a symbol of hospitality and celebration. It's especially popular during festive occasions such as Eid al-Fitr, Ramadan, and weddings. Egyptian Kanafeh is distinguished by its use of Akkawi cheese, which adds a salty, tangy note that complements the dessert's sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 package of Kataifi dough (16 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lb of Akkawi cheese, shredded
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of rose water
- 1/2 cup of crushed pistachios
- 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Gently separate the Kataifi dough strands with your fingers. Pour the melted butter over the dough and mix to coat each strand.
3. Spread half of the Kataifi dough evenly in the prepared dish, pressing down lightly.
4. In a bowl, mix shredded Akkawi cheese with chopped almonds. Spread this mixture over the dough.
5. Cover with the remaining Kataifi dough, pressing it down lightly.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water until thickened, then add rose water.
8. Pour the hot syrup over the baked Kanafeh and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb.
9. Sprinkle with crushed pistachios and serve warm.
Notes
- Akkawi cheese provides a better flavor balance than mozzarella due to its saltiness and tang.
- Allow the Kanafeh to absorb the syrup fully for the best taste.
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve with clotted cream or ice cream.
Nutrition Value:
1. Kataifi dough (16 oz package)
- Calories: 1,440
- Carbohydrates: 240g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 48g
- Sodium: 2,880mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Minimal, generally lacks significant vitamins
- Minerals: Small amounts of iron and calcium
Nutritional Benefit: Kataifi dough is a source of carbohydrates and provides some dietary fiber. However, it is low in essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Unsalted butter (1 1/2 cups, melted)
- Calories: 1,200
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 136g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 360mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin A
- Minerals: Small amounts of calcium and phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Butter provides a high amount of fat, which includes saturated fat. It is also a good source of vitamin A but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.
3. Akkawi cheese (1 lb, shredded)
- Calories: 800
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 56g
- Fat: 64g
- Sodium: 2,400mg
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and some B vitamins
- Minerals: Good source of calcium and phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Akkawi cheese is high in protein and calcium, which is essential for bone health. It is also a good source of vitamin A but has a high sodium and cholesterol content.
4. Sugar (1 cup)
- Calories: 774
- Carbohydrates: 200g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Lacks significant vitamins
- Minerals: Minimal, does not provide essential minerals
Nutritional Benefit: Sugar provides energy in the form of carbohydrates but lacks vitamins and minerals. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as weight gain and increased risk of diabetes.
5. Water (1/2 cup)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and helps in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
6. Rose water (1/4 cup)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Rose water is used for flavoring and provides no significant nutritional benefits but adds a unique aroma and taste.
7. Crushed pistachios (1/2 cup)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin B6 and vitamin K
- Minerals: High in magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium
Nutritional Benefit: Pistachios provide healthy fats, protein, and several essential vitamins and minerals. They support heart health and provide a good source of antioxidants.
8. Chopped almonds (1/2 cup)
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin E and B vitamins
- Minerals: High in magnesium, calcium, and iron
Nutritional Benefit: Almonds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and important vitamins and minerals. They support cardiovascular health and provide antioxidant benefits.
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