Kataifi Recipe

It’s a calm evening, and the air is filled with the enchanting aroma of delicate pastries and sweet honey. Embrace this moment and gather your loved ones for a culinary adventure that is bound to turn into a cherished memory. The Kataifi recipe is a delightfully unique dessert, combining layers of crispy, shredded phyllo dough, filled with a rich medley of nuts, and soaked in luscious honey syrup. This treat is perfect for family gatherings or tranquil tea time, evoking a sense of warmth, creativity, and togetherness. Join me, Zynah Maryam, as we bring this enchanting dessert to life in your kitchen, creating not just food, but memories that will last a lifetime.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 12 pieces

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 400g Kataifi dough (shredded phyllo dough)
• 200g mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios), finely chopped
• 100g unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Finely chopped pistachios, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little melted butter.
2. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts and ground cinnamon.
3. Unravel the Kataifi dough carefully and cut into sections about 6 inches long. Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
4. Take a section of the Kataifi dough and gently spread it out. Place a small amount of the nut mixture at one end. Roll it up tightly into a neat roll.
5. Place each rolled piece into the prepared baking dish, snugly side by side. Brush generously with melted butter on all sides.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. While the Kataifi is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Once the Kataifi is done baking, remove from the oven and pour the hot syrup over the top, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow to sit and absorb the syrup for at least 1 hour.
9. Garnish with finely chopped pistachios before serving.

Helpful Tips

For a fresher taste, you can substitute the mixed nuts with pecans or hazelnuts. Ensure the syrup is hot when you pour it over the Kataifi – this helps the pastry to soak it up properly. If you’re new to using Kataifi dough, keep a damp cloth over the dough you’re not working with to prevent it from drying out.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Kataifi in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain its crispiness, do not refrigerate. It can stay fresh for up to a week.

Pairings

This elegant Kataifi pairs beautifully with a cup of floral tea, like jasmine or earl grey. For a fuller dessert experience, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Here at Zynahz, we believe in the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. We encourage you to try this delightful Kataifi recipe and share your culinary adventures with us. Let’s spread joy and creativity, one dish at a time! Share this recipe with friends and family, and explore more on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter for endless kitchen inspiration!