Decadent Kunafa Recipe with Gooey Mozzarella Magic
This kunafa recipe combines crispy kataifi pastry with gooey mozzarella, all adorned with a fragrant syrup.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Butter baking pan
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
For the Syrup
- 1 cup Sugar You can swap with coconut sugar for a twist.
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Rose Water or Orange Blossom Water Optional for added floral aroma.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Just a squeeze balances sweetness.
For the Kunafa Base
- 1 package Kataifi Dough Find at Middle Eastern stores.
- 1/2 cup Melted Butter Saturate the pastry evenly.
For the Cheesy Filling
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Use high moisture, at least 50%.
- 1/2 cup Thick Cream Ricotta can be used as an alternative.
For Garnishing
- 1/4 cup Crushed Pistachios For decoration before serving.
- Dry Rose Petals Optional for presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add rose water if desired, and let it cool.
- Thaw Kataifi Dough: Take the frozen kataifi dough out and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Shred or cube the mozzarella cheese and mix it with the thick cream.
- Prepare Kataifi Dough: Break apart the kataifi dough into finer pieces and mix thoroughly with the melted butter.
- Pack Kataifi Dough: In a buttered baking pan, press half of the kataifi mixture evenly to form a solid base.
- Layer Cheese Mixture: Distribute the cheesy mixture evenly over the kataifi base.
- Top with Kataifi: Spread the remaining kataifi over the cheese layer and press gently to secure it.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the kunafa for 40-50 minutes until golden brown.
- Drizzle with Syrup: Pour 3/4 of the cooled syrup over the warm kunafa and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Serve: Invert the kunafa onto a serving platter, garnish with crushed pistachios, slice into portions, and serve warm.
Notes
Kunafa is best enjoyed warm; serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.