Kanafeh cheese

kanafeh_cheese

Lebanese cuisine is known for being flavorful, hearty, and diverse. One of the most beloved desserts in Lebanese cuisine is Kanafeh, a delicious cheese pastry that originated in the city of Nablus in Palestine. Kanafeh has become a staple dessert in Lebanon, and it is enjoyed all year round, especially during Ramadan, a holy month of fasting observed by Muslims.

Kanafeh is a delectable dessert made of shredded phyllo dough that is layered with cheese and then soaked in a sweet syrup. The cheese used in Kanafeh can vary, but the most traditional and popular cheese used is Akkawi, which is a white, salty cheese that is firm and has a slightly elastic texture. The cheese is mixed with sugar to create a sweet and savory filling that melts in the mouth.

The shredded phyllo dough is mixed with melted butter and is then layered on top of the cheese mixture. The pastry is baked until it is golden brown and crispy, and then it is soaked in a sweet and fragrant syrup made of sugar, water, and rosewater. The syrup gives the Kanafeh its signature sweetness and aroma, and it is drizzled on top of the pastry before serving.

Kanafeh can be served warm, at room temperature or cold. It is often garnished with finely chopped pistachios, which add a crunchy texture and a nutty, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and creamy pastry. Kanafeh is commonly served with Arabic coffee or tea, which helps balance its sweetness and richness.

Lebanese Kanafeh is an important part of the country’s culinary heritage and is enjoyed by people from all walks of life. It is often served at special occasions, such as weddings, graduations, or family gatherings, and it is a symbol of generosity, hospitality, and celebration. Kanafeh is also a popular street food in Lebanon, and it can be found in most Arab markets and food stalls.

While Kanafeh is a delicious dessert, it is important to note that it is also a high-calorie dish. Each serving contains a significant amount of sugar, butter, and cheese, which can be detrimental to one’s health if consumed excessively. Therefore, Kanafeh should be enjoyed in moderation, as part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, Lebanese Kanafeh is a decadent and mouth-watering dessert that has become an integral part of Lebanese cuisine. Its combination of crispy phyllo, sweet cheese filling, fragrant syrup, and crunchy pistachios make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether eaten as a comforting snack or as a celebratory dessert, Kanafeh is a true delight for the senses and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Lebanon.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 lb shredded akkawi cheese
  • 1 lb kataifi dough
  • 1 1/2 cups ghee, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp. rose water
  • 1/2 tsp. orange blossom water
  • 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
  • Pistachios, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and the shredded akkawi cheese. Toss to combine.
  3. In another mixing bowl, soak the kataifi dough in melted ghee until completely coated.
  4. To assemble the dessert, spread half of the ghee-coated kataifi dough on the bottom of a large baking dish.
  5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the kataifi dough.
  6. Top the cheese mixture with the remaining ghee-coated kataifi dough.
  7. Bake the dessert for 30-40 minutes or until the kataifi dough is golden brown and crispy.
  8. While the dessert is baking, prepare the syrup by combining the water, sugar, lemon juice, rose water, and orange blossom water in a saucepan. Cook over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
  9. When the dessert is finished baking, remove it from the oven and pour the prepared syrup over the top of the hot kanafeh.
  10. Let the dessert sit for 5-10 minutes before garnishing with chopped pistachios and serving. Enjoy your delicious Lebanese Kanafeh cheese!