Kunafa: A Dessert Perfect for any occasion to satisfy your Sweettooth

Kunafa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that has been enjoyed for generations, having being originated in the Ottoman Empire (presently, Turkey), this delectable pastry consists of layers of shredded phyllo dough that are stuffed with sweet, creamy cheese and soaked in a syrup made from sugar, water, and lemon juice. The result is a dessert that is crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and bursting with flavor. 

Although it may sound intimidating to make this globally beloved dish at home, it is actually very easy -to-make and can easily be cooked for more number of people. 

A single serving of kunafa (100g) contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 220mg

Here is a kunafa recipe that serves 6-8 people:

Ingredients:

For the kunafa dough:

• 500g shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheese filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

For the syrup:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Start by preparing the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and orange blossom water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, sugar, and orange blossom water. Mix well until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round baking dish with some butter. Take the shredded phyllo dough and separate it into two equal parts.
5. Spread half of the shredded phyllo dough on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press the dough down lightly to create an even layer.
6. Spread the cheese filling over the phyllo dough, making sure to spread it out evenly.
7. Cover the cheese filling with the remaining shredded phyllo dough, pressing it down lightly to create an even layer.
8. Pour the melted butter over the top of the kunafa, making sure to cover the entire surface.
9. Bake the kunafa in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
10. Once the kunafa is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the cooled syrup over the top. Let the kunafa cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Serve the kunafa warm with some extra syrup on the side, if desired.

While kunafa is not a healthy dessert option due to its high calorie and sugar content, it can be enjoyed in moderation as a special treat. The high amount of fat and saturated fat in kunafa is a concern for those with heart health issues or high cholesterol. It is important to keep in mind that consuming too much sugar and saturated fat can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues.

But healthier, alternatives versions can be prepared by making a lighter version of dish by using low fat ricotta cheese and cutting down on the sugar amount. Even the sugar syrup can be replaced by Agave nectar to cut down on the health hazards of the dish.