Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Jordan with our signature Jordan Kunafa. This delectable dessert showcases layers of shredded pastry dough meticulously woven with a rich filling of your choice, whether it be creamy cheese or crunchy nuts. Baked to golden perfection and lavishly soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will transport your senses to the bustling streets of Jordan. Treat yourself to a taste of tradition with our Jordan Kunafa, a true masterpiece of Middle Eastern culinary artistry.

Ingredients:

For the Kunafa:

 - 500g shredded Kunafa dough (also known as Kataifi dough), thawed if frozen

 - 200g unsalted butter, melted

 - 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded (or substitute with Akkawi cheese for a more traditional flavor)

 - 100g chopped nuts (such as pistachios, almonds, or walnuts)

For the Sugar Syrup:

 - 1 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 cup water

 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

 - 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- Start by preparing the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water or orange blossom water if using. Set aside to cool.

3- In a large mixing bowl, separate the shredded Kunafa dough into strands. Pour the melted butter over the dough and toss gently to ensure all strands are coated evenly.

4- Grease a round baking pan or tray with butter. Take half of the butter-coated Kunafa dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust layer.

5- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese (or Akkawi cheese) evenly over the Kunafa crust layer. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the cheese layer.

6- Cover the cheese and nut layer with the remaining butter-coated Kunafa dough, pressing gently to form the top layer.

7- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the Kunafa turns golden brown and crispy on top.

8- Once baked, remove the Kunafa from the oven and immediately pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the hot Kunafa, allowing it to soak in.

9 -Let the Kunafa cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

10- Enjoy your homemade Jordan Kunafa, a delightful blend of crunchy pastry, gooey cheese, nuts, and sweet syrup!

Nutritional Values :

Here’s the nutritional breakdown and benefits for the ingredients in your Kunafa recipe:

For the Kunafa:

Shredded Kunafa Dough (500g):

  - Calories: Approximately 2000

  - Fat: 150 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 170 grams

  - Protein: 20 grams

Benefits: Provides a base for the dessert with a crispy texture when baked. High in carbohydrates and fat.

Unsalted Butter (200g, melted):

  - Calories: Approximately 1430

  - Fat: 160 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

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

Mozzarella Cheese (200g):

  - Calories: Approximately 640

  - Fat: 48 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

  - Protein: 40 grams

Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium. Supports bone health and adds creaminess.

Chopped Nuts (100g):

  - Calories: Approximately 600

  - Fat: 50 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

  - Protein: 15 grams

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. Supports heart health and adds crunch and flavor.

For the Sugar Syrup:

Granulated Sugar (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 775

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 200 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds sweetness and texture but is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.

Water (1 cup):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Used as a base for the syrup, does not contribute calories or nutrients.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 4

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds a tangy flavor and vitamin C, supports immune function.

Rose Water or Orange Blossom Water (1 teaspoon, optional):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds aromatic flavor. Rose water may have antioxidant properties.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, specific ingredients used, and serving sizes.