Embark on a sweet adventure with Konafa, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that charms with its unique texture and exquisite flavors. This shredded wheat pastry, often a centerpiece at celebrations, features a crispy golden exterior and a lusciously soft interior, typically filled with sweet cheese or cream. Drizzled with fragrant syrup and often garnished with nuts, Konafa is a symphony of textures and tastes that promises a memorable culinary experience.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: Makes about 8 servings
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 30g
Ingredients
- Shredded phyllo dough (Konafa dough): 500g (1.1 lbs / 17.6 oz)
- Melted unsalted butter: 120g (0.26 lbs / 4.2 oz)
- Sweet cheese (like Akkawi or Mozzarella), soaked and drained: 400g (0.88 lbs / 14 oz)
- For the Syrup:
- Sugar: 300g (0.66 lbs / 10.6 oz)
- Water: 240ml (8 oz)
- Lemon juice: 15ml (0.5 oz)
- Orange blossom water: 5ml (0.17 oz)
- Ground pistachios: For garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare Syrup: Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Boil until syrupy, then add orange blossom water. Cool.
- Prep Konafa Dough: Mix the shredded phyllo with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Assemble Konafa: In a baking pan, layer half the dough, press the cheese on top, then cover with remaining dough.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes or until golden.
- Finish with Syrup: Pour cooled syrup over the hot Konafa.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with ground pistachios and serve.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Butter Distribution: Ensure even coating of butter on the dough for a crisp texture.
- Cheese Preparation: Soak cheese if it's too salty and drain well.
- Syrup Timing: Pour syrup on hot Konafa for best absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, sweetened cream or nuts can be used.
How long does Konafa last?
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 1-2 days.
Can Konafa be made in advance?
Assemble in advance but bake just before serving.