Ankara Künefe

Ankara Künefe is a delightful dessert originating from Turkey, renowned for its rich flavors and crispy texture. While it is traditionally rooted in the city of Hatay, variations of Künefe have spread throughout Turkey, including the capital, Ankara. This dessert is a symbol of Turkish hospitality and is often served to guests as a sweet gesture. The dish combines the crunchiness of baked kadayıf with the smooth, melted tenderness of cheese, all soaked in a sweet, aromatic syrup. Its history dates back to the Ottoman Empire, reflecting a blend of cultures and flavors from across the region.

Ingredients

• Kadayıf - 500g
• Unsalted butter - 250g
• Cheese (preferably a stretchy kind such as Hatay's künefe cheese or mozzarella) - 300g
• Sugar - 2 cups
• Water - 1 cup
• Lemon juice - 1 teaspoon
• Ground pistachios for garnish - 50g

Preparation

Preparing the Kadayıf

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Next, gently separate the kadayıf strands, ensuring they are not clumped together. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave, then pour it evenly over the kadayıf. Using your fingers, work the butter into the kadayıf strands until they are well coated.

Cheese Filling

For the filling, slice the cheese into thin layers or grate it for even distribution. Set aside for easy assembly later.

Cooking Process

Assembly

In a baking dish or a traditional künefe pan, spread half of the kadayıf evenly across the base. Press it down firmly to create a smooth, even layer. Distribute the sliced or grated cheese across the kadayıf base. Finally, cover the cheese with the remaining kadayıf, pressing down once more to ensure it is compact and even.

Baking

Place the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the top turns a golden brown and you can see the cheese melting. While the kadayıf is baking, it's a perfect time to start making the syrup. Here's a handy cooking timer you can use to keep track.

Syrup Preparation

In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Place it on medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the lemon juice and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Final Steps

Once baked, remove the kadayıf from the oven. While still hot, pour the prepared syrup evenly over the top. Allow it to soak in, which will further infuse the dessert with sweetness.

Serving and Enjoyment

Ankara Künefe is best enjoyed warm, so the cheese remains gooey and stretchy. Cut it into individual portions and sprinkle generously with ground pistachios for an added nutty flavor and visual appeal. Serve with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee to complement the dessert's sweetness. Savor each bite, appreciating the harmonious blend of textures and flavors indicative of Turkish culinary tradition.