Baked kataifi
Kataifi is a traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dessert, known for its unique shredded phyllo dough. This dessert is crunchy on the outside and soaked in a fragrant syrup, creating a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Often filled with nuts and spices, kataifi is a perfect end to a festive meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon slice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, add lemon juice and honey, and let it cool completely.
Prepare the filling
Mix the chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl.
Heat the oven
Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with some of the melted butter.
To prepare kataifi rolls
Take a portion of the kataifi dough and spread it out. Place a tablespoon of the nut mixture on one end. Roll up the dough tightly to enclose the filling. Place in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining melted butter.
To prepare layered kataifi
Divide the kataifi dough into two equal parts. Spread the first half evenly in the baking tray, pressing down gently to create an even layer. Evenly distribute the nut mixture over the first layer of kataifi. Spread the second half of the kataifi dough over the nut mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well. Pour the remaining melted butter evenly over the top layer.
Finish the kataifi
To finish the kataifi, as soon as the kataifi comes out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot pastries. Decorate with some more chopped nuts on top of each roll or at the center of what will be a kataifi square.
Let the baked kataifi soak the syrup and cool down completely before serving.
Notes
Baked kataifi is best served at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or tea. For a festive touch, you can garnish it with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or a dollop of whipped cream.
Variations
Nut variations: You can use other nuts like hazelnuts or pecans, or even a combination to suit your taste.
Spice variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the nut mixture for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled kataifi for a modern twist.
Orange blossom syrup: Replace the lemon juice in the syrup with orange blossom water for a fragrant variation.
Source
Kataifi has its roots in the Ottoman Empire and is enjoyed across many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries. The unique shredded dough is believed to have been inspired by traditional phyllo dough, with its origins traced back to ancient Greece and Egypt. Over centuries, kataifi has become a beloved dessert, often associated with celebrations and festive occasions, symbolizing sweetness and prosperity.
Food in Europe and Asia