Kunafa Nabulsi, also known as Knafeh Nabulsi or Nabulsi kunafa, is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that originated in the Palestinian city of Nablus. The cheese used in Kunafa Nabulsi is a white brined cheese made from sheep's milk. Nabulsi cheese has a salty flavor and a firm texture that allows it to hold its shape when heated. The cheese is typically handcrafted by local artisans using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.
The Kunafa can layered with many types of cheese or thick cream, but Nabulsi cheese is one of the best!
The Ingredients of Kunafa:
500g Kunafa dough (shredded phyllo pastry)
250g Nabulsi cheese (or other white brined cheese)
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 teaspoons Ziyad Kunafa pastry coloring
1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Crushed pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)
Directions:
To prepare the syrup:
Start by preparing the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water, and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, add the rose water as desired and set the syrup aside to cool.
To prepare Kunafa:
Grate or crumble the Nabulsi cheese into a bowl. If the cheese is too salty, you can soak it in water for 10-15 minutes to reduce the saltiness. Drain well before using.
In a separate bowl, take the shredded Kunafa dough and pour the melted butter over it. Mix the dough, Kunafa pastry coloring, and butter together until all the strands are evenly coated.
Grease a round baking pan or a rectangular baking dish with some melted butter. Spread half of the buttered Kunafa dough evenly over the bottom of the pan, pressing it down gently.
Spread the Nabulsi cheese evenly over the Kunafa dough layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
Cover the cheese with the remaining Kunafa dough, pressing it down gently to form a top layer.
Bake the Kunafa in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy on top.
Once the Kunafa is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot pastry. Allow the Kunafa to absorb the syrup for a few minutes.
Garnish the Kunafa with crushed pistachios or almonds if desired (This is an optional step, but it definitely going to elevate the look and taste of the Kunafa)
Let the Kunafa cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Kunafa Nabulsi cheese is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert. Its crispy, golden exterior and the gooey, melted cheese inside make it a truly indulgent treat. Enjoy this delicious dessert with family and friends!
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