Gaziantep’s Culinary Delight: Kunefe!

 

Ingredients:

• 250g of kadayıf (shredded phyllo dough)
• 200g unsalted cheese (preferably a firm, unsalted cheese like mozzarella or a traditional Turkish cheese)
• 150g unsalted butter
• 2 cups of sugar
• 1.5 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Crushed pistachios for garnish

Syrup Preparation:

1. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil and then simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Set aside to cool.

Künefe Preparation:

1. Melt the butter and evenly coat the strands of kadayıf with it.
2. Place half of the buttered kadayıf in a round, medium-sized baking tray, pressing it down lightly.
3. Spread the cheese evenly over the kadayıf layer, leaving a small margin around the edges.
4. Cover the cheese with the remaining kadayıf, pressing down gently.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 20-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot künefe.
7. Garnish with crushed pistachios.
8. Serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Künefe!

Afiyet Olsun :)