Konafa, a crispy and creamy dessert, is a Middle Eastern favorite that has captured the hearts of many. This delightful treat is made with layers of shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), sweet cheese or cream, and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. Whether you’ve enjoyed konafa in a Middle Eastern bakery or are trying it for the first time, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate this beloved dessert at home.
Ingredients Needed for Konafa
To make a classic konafa, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Konafa Base:
- 500g shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
- 1 cup melted butter
For the Filling:
- 250g sweet cheese (such as Akkawi or mozzarella)
- Or a mixture of cheese and thickened cream (optional for a creamier filling)
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed pistachios
- Shredded coconut
- A dollop of clotted cream (eshta)
Shredded phyllo dough, known as kataifi, is the key ingredient that gives konafa its signature crispy texture. The filling is traditionally made with sweet cheese, but you can also use a mixture of cheese and cream for a richer taste. The dessert is finished with a fragrant sugar syrup, often infused with rose or orange blossom water.
Preparing the Sugar Syrup
The sugar syrup, known as « atar, » is essential for giving konafa its sweet flavor and moist texture. Here’s how to make it:
- Mix Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Flavor: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and, if desired, 1 tablespoon of rose water or orange blossom water for a fragrant aroma.
- Cool: Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely before using it on the konafa.
The lemon juice helps prevent the syrup from crystallizing, while the rose or orange blossom water adds a subtle floral note that enhances the dessert’s flavor.
Preparing the Konafa Dough
The shredded phyllo dough forms the crispy layers of the konafa. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Shred the Dough: If using whole phyllo dough, shred it into fine pieces using a food processor or your hands. If using pre-shredded kataifi, gently separate the strands to loosen them.
- Coat with Butter: Place the shredded dough in a large bowl. Pour 1 cup of melted butter over the dough and mix thoroughly to coat each strand evenly. This step ensures a golden, crispy crust.
- Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, one for the base and one for the top layer.
Coating the dough evenly with butter is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. It also helps bind the layers together during baking.
Preparing the Filling
The filling can vary, but sweet cheese is the most traditional option:
- Cheese Filling: If using Akkawi cheese, soak it in water for 1-2 hours to remove excess salt, changing the water occasionally. Then, shred or chop the cheese into small pieces.
- Cream Filling (Optional): For a creamier filling, mix sweet cheese with thickened cream or ricotta cheese. This adds a rich, creamy texture to the dessert.
- Layer the Filling: Set the filling aside until you are ready to assemble the konafa.
Akkawi cheese is traditional in konafa, offering a subtle sweetness. Mozzarella is a good substitute if you prefer a milder taste. Mixing the cheese with cream creates a luxurious filling that melts beautifully.
Assembling the Konafa
Now it’s time to assemble the konafa:
- Bottom Layer: Grease a round baking dish (about 10 inches in diameter) with a bit of melted butter. Press half of the butter-coated dough into the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer.
- Add the Filling: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the bottom layer of dough.
- Top Layer: Cover the filling with the remaining shredded dough, pressing gently to ensure it’s even and compact.
Make sure the top layer is evenly distributed to ensure an even bake. Pressing it down gently helps compact the layers, resulting in a cohesive dessert that holds its shape when sliced.
Baking the Konafa
To achieve that perfect golden, crispy crust, follow these steps:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake: Place the assembled konafa in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Invert and Bake Again (Optional): For an evenly crisp crust on both sides, carefully invert the konafa onto another baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Baking the konafa until golden brown ensures a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. For an extra-crispy crust, the optional inversion step is worth the effort.
Adding the Sugar Syrup
The final touch that brings everything together:
- Pour Syrup: Immediately after removing the konafa from the oven, pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the hot konafa.
- Let it Soak: Allow the konafa to soak up the syrup for a few minutes, letting it permeate the crispy layers.
- Garnish: Garnish with crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, or a dollop of clotted cream if desired.
Pouring the cooled syrup over the hot konafa ensures it is absorbed evenly, adding sweetness and moisture without making the dessert soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I make konafa with a different filling?
Yes, you can use a variety of fillings for konafa, including custard cream, ricotta, or even a nut mixture. Each variation offers a unique flavor and texture.
2. Can I prepare konafa in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the konafa and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
3. How do I prevent the konafa from becoming soggy?
Make sure the sugar syrup is completely cooled before pouring it over the hot konafa. Also, ensure the konafa is baked until it’s crispy and golden brown before adding the syrup.
4. Is konafa best served warm or cold?
Konafa is traditionally served warm so that the cheese is soft and gooey. However, it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or even chilled.
Wrapping Up: Enjoy the Sweet, Crispy Delight of Konafa
Konafa is a delicious Middle Eastern dessert that combines the crispy texture of shredded phyllo dough with a sweet, creamy filling. Making konafa at home is easier than you might think, and the result is a stunningly delicious dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something sweet. With its layers of buttery dough, gooey cheese, and fragrant syrup, konafa is a true delight that brings a taste of Middle Eastern tradition to your table.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and treat yourself to the indulgent flavors of homemade konafa!