BEST Turkish Kunefe Recipe (with wonderfully melting cheese)

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and healthier.

cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

pistachios

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: almonds

Walnuts are less expensive and provide a similar texture.

sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: honey

Stevia is a low-calorie sweetener.

Combine sugar, water and a slice of lemon in a small saucepan. Stir and bring to boil, then let it simmer for 15 minutes until syrupy. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

Pull apart a large clump of kadayif and chop into small pieces (about 1/2 inch / 1 cm). Toss well with melted butter until all pieces are coated.

Generously grease 2 small pans or one large pan with softened butter. Place a handful of buttered kadayif into the pans to cover the bottom and edges.

Press down with your hand or the bottom of a glass until even and firm. Spread shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, leaving space around the edges.

Place another batch of kadayif on cheese, ensuring all cheese is covered, especially around the edges. Press down again until even and firm.

Put the pan over medium heat and reduce to low once warm. Cook until the bottom is golden, about 5 minutes (longer for a large pan).

Place a plate on the kadayif and quickly flip it. Be careful as the pan and kadayif will be hot. Add about 1 teaspoon of butter to the pan and when melted, slide the kadayif back into the pan. Cook the other side for 4-5 minutes or until golden. Remove from heat.

Pour cooled syrup over the hot dessert, garnish with ground pistachio, and serve immediately. Drizzle extra syrup when eating if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens