Künefe is a traditional Turkish dessert featuring shredded filo dough filled with stretchy cheese, baked to a golden crisp, and soaked in sweet syrup. Originating from the city of Hatay, it's believed to date back to the 10th century, reflecting the culinary influence of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Today, künefe is cherished across Turkey and beyond for its delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

- 200g shredded kataifi (filo dough)

- 200g mozzarella cheese or traditional künefe cheese

- 150g unsalted butter

- 200g granulated sugar

- 150ml water

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Crushed pistachios for garnish (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Grease a round baking dish with butter.

3. Spread half of the shredded kataifi in the bottom of the dish.

4. Place slices of mozzarella or künefe cheese evenly over the kataifi.

5. Cover the cheese with the remaining kataifi.

6. Melt the remaining butter and drizzle it over the top of the künefe.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

8. While the künefe is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

9. Once the künefe is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.

10. Allow the künefe to cool slightly before serving.

11. Garnish with crushed pistachios if desired.

12. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. Shredded Kataifi (Filo Dough):

  - Calories: Approximately 330 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 75g

  - Protein: Approximately 3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Varies depending on brand, typically low

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates, but limited in protein and fat. Contains some dietary fiber.

2. Mozzarella Cheese or Traditional Künefe Cheese:

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g

  - Protein: Approximately 50g

  - Fat: Approximately 65g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1500mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 200mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Rich source of protein and calcium. Contains saturated fats and cholesterol, so moderation is advised.

3. Unsalted Butter:

  - Calories: Approximately 720 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 81g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 240mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides energy from fats. Contains vitamin A and D, but high in saturated fats and cholesterol.

4. Granulated Sugar:

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 200g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. High consumption may lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes.

5. Water:

  - No significant caloric value

  - No carbohydrates, protein, or fat

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Essential for hydration and various bodily functions.

6. Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 4 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains vitamin C and antioxidants. May aid digestion and add flavor to dishes.

7. Crushed Pistachios for Garnish (optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 160 kcal (per 28g serving)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 8g

  - Protein: Approximately 6g

  - Fat: Approximately 13g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, thiamine, phosphorus, and potassium.