Delight in Authentic Flavors: Lebanese Knafeh Recipe

Transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Lebanon with our irresistible Lebanese Knafeh recipe. This beloved Middle Eastern dessert combines layers of crispy shredded phyllo dough (kataifi) with a creamy, sweet cheese filling, all soaked in a fragrant syrup infused with orange blossom water. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and create this delectable treat:

Ingredients:

For the Knafeh:

• 1 pound kataifi dough (shredded phyllo dough), thawed if frozen
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups Akkawi cheese, shredded (or substitute mozzarella cheese)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios, for garnish (optional)

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

Lebanese Knafeh Recipe

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
2. Prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded Akkawi cheese, ricotta cheese, sugar, and orange blossom water. Mix until well combined and set aside.
4. Place the kataifi dough in a large bowl and separate the strands gently with your fingers to loosen them.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the kataifi dough and toss gently to coat the strands evenly.
6. Press half of the butter-coated kataifi dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
7. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the layer of kataifi dough.
8. Cover the cheese mixture with the remaining kataifi dough, pressing it down gently to compact.
9. Bake the knafeh in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove the knafeh from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot knafeh, allowing it to soak in.
11. Garnish the knafeh with chopped pistachios, if desired.
12. Allow the knafeh to cool slightly before slicing into squares or diamonds.
13. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Lebanese knafeh!

Savor the Sweetness:

With its crispy layers, creamy filling, and fragrant syrup, Lebanese Knafeh is a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or as a special treat on its own, this beloved Middle Eastern delicacy will transport you to a world of authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Gather your loved ones and indulge in the enchanting experience of Lebanese knafeh today!