Kunafa

Here is a recipe for classic kunafa:

Ingredients:

• 16 oz (450g) kunafa dough (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz (450g) ricotta cheese or mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp orange blossom water (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)

For the syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Break the kunafa dough into small pieces and place them in a food processor. Process the dough until it is finely ground.
4. In a large bowl, mix together the ground kunafa dough and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
5. Spread the ricotta or mozzarella cheese evenly over the kunafa dough.
6. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice for the syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the syrup for 5-10 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the orange blossom water (if using).
7. Pour the syrup evenly over the cheese layer in the baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped nuts (if using) over the top.
8. Bake the kunafa for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the syrup is bubbling.
9. Let the kunafa cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut it into squares and serve warm. Enjoy!