Unique Desserts of Arab Cuisine: Lebanese Style Kunefe
Arab cuisine has a richness that draws attention especially with its desserts. This food culture offers a unique taste experience by blending the flavors of different countries. In this article, Lebanese cuisine one of the most well-known desserts kunefe We will discuss. Kunefe is a dessert prepared with the perfect combination of thin shredded wheat, plenty of butter and melted cheese. When crowned with sherbet, it offers even more flavor.
Kunefe Ingredients
The ingredients needed to make kunafah are quite simple. However, the quality of the ingredients directly affects the taste. Here are the ingredients needed to prepare Lebanese style kunafah:
- For the base:
- 500 grams of fresh shredded wheat
- 200 grams of melted butter
- 300 grams of unsalted fresh cheese (mozzarella or string cheese)
- 2 cup powdered sugar
- 1,5 water glass of water
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- Crushed pistachios
How to Make Kunefe
Making kunefe is a process that requires attention and patience. However, when followed step by step, the result will be perfect. Here are the steps of making kunefe:
- Prepare the Sherbet: Put sugar and water in a pot. Let it boil on medium heat. After the syrup boils, add the lemon juice and boil for 5 more minutes and let it cool.
- Prepare the Velvet: Tear the fresh shredded wheat into small pieces with your hands. This process allows the shredded wheat to cook better and absorb the syrup.
- Add the Butter: Add the melted butter to the kadaif and spread it evenly throughout. Butter is an important ingredient that enhances the flavor of kunefe.
- Prepare the Tray: Grease an ovenproof baking tray with butter. Spread half of the shredded wheat onto the tray and press down firmly to flatten.
- Cheese Layer: Spread thinly sliced cheese over the shredded wheat. The unsalted cheese will create a perfect balance with the sweetness.
- Close the Top Shred: Cover the remaining shredded wheat with the cheese and press firmly to flatten it. This will prevent the cheese inside the kunefe from leaking.
- Cooking: Bake the tray in a preheated oven at 180 degrees for approximately 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown. The oven temperature and time will determine the consistency of your kunefe.
- Add the Sherbet: Pour the cooled syrup over the hot kunefe that just came out of the oven. The concentration of the syrup on the hot kunefe will add extra flavor to the dessert.
- Ornament: Garnish with crushed pistachios, slice and serve hot. This will both create a visual feast and add extra crunch to the dessert.
Serving of Kunefe
Kunefe is usually served hot. The syrup poured over the hot kunefe doubles the flavor of the dessert. In addition, the decoration made with crushed pistachios makes the presentation of the dessert even more magnificent. This flavor, which you can choose for special occasions or for your daily dessert needs, will also impress your guests.
Details of Making Kunefe
There are some subtleties to consider when making kunefe. First of all, the freshness of the shredded wheat used is extremely important. Fresh shredded wheat gives better results during cooking. In addition, the hotness of the syrup increases the flavor of the dessert. The amount of syrup is also a factor that affects the consistency of the dessert; therefore, it is best to add the syrup little by little.
The Place of Kunefe in Arab Cuisine
Kunafah has an important place in Arab cuisine. It is a dessert that is consumed frequently, especially in countries such as Lebanon, Syria and Turkey. Although each country has its own methods of making kunafah, the basic ingredients are generally the same. Kunafah is both a treat for sweet lovers and a flavor to be offered to guests on special occasions.
This unique dessert of the Arab cuisine not only appeals to your taste buds but also pleases your eyes. The unique texture and flavor of kunefe make it an indispensable taste.
