Kunafa Ma'a Aasal

About Kunafa Ma'a Aasal

Kunafa Ma'a Aasal, often referred to as Kunafa with honey, is a decadent dessert that has origins in the Middle East and is particularly popular in Arab countries. This dessert is traditionally associated with the holy month of Ramadan but has become a sought-after dish worldwide due to its unique texture and deliciously sweet flavor.

The origins of Kunafa can be traced back to the Levant region, which includes countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine. Legend has it that the dish was created in the Fatimid dynasty in Egypt to satisfy the hunger of caliphs during Ramadan. Over time, the recipe spread throughout the Middle East, each region adding its distinct touch.

Kunafa is typically made with fine semolina dough or pastry crushed into fine shards and layered with cheese or cream. Once baked, the pastry is doused in a fragrant sugar syrup, often flavored with honey and rosewater, providing a perfect balance to the creamy filling and crispy topping.

Ingredients for Kunafa Ma'a Aasal

• Kunafa dough - 500 grams
• Butter - 250 grams, melted
• Akawi cheese - 400 grams, desalted and shredded
• Cream - 200 grams
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Water - 1/2 cup
• Honey - 1/4 cup
• Rosewater - 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Crushed pistachios - for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

• In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water.
• Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
• Add the lemon juice and rosewater if using.
• Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until slightly thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in honey.
• Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Kunafa Dough

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
• Take the kunafa dough and shred it finely using your hands or a food processor.
• Place the shredded dough in a bowl and gradually add the melted butter, mixing well until all strands are coated.

Step 3: Layer the Kunafa

• Grease a round baking pan with butter.
• Spread half of the buttered kunafa dough evenly at the bottom of the pan, pressing it firmly.
• Spread the shredded Akawi cheese evenly over the dough.
• Spread the cream on top of the cheese layer.
• Top with the remaining kunafa dough, pressing down gently.

Step 4: Bake the Kunafa

• Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• For a more even color, you may broil the top for an additional 5 minutes but monitor closely to avoid burning.
• Once done, remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Adding the Sugar Syrup

• Immediately after removing the kunafa from the oven, pour the cooled honey syrup over the hot kunafa, ensuring it covers all areas evenly.
• Let the kunafa absorb the syrup for several minutes.

Step 6: Garnishing and Serving

• Sprinkle generous amounts of crushed pistachios over the top.
• Let it cool to room temperature before cutting into slices.
• Serve warm and enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors.

Enjoying Kunafa Ma'a Aasal

Kunafa Ma'a Aasal is best enjoyed warm, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and blend with the honey syrup. It pairs beautifully with a cup of Arabic coffee or mint tea, enhancing the rich flavors. The dish can be further customized by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added indulgence.

Whether it's a festive occasion or a simple family dessert, Kunafa Ma'a Aasal offers a taste of Middle Eastern tradition and hospitality.