Znoud El Sit is a popular dessert in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon. It is a pastry that is made by rolling out thin layers of phyllo dough, filling them with a sweet cream cheese mixture, and then frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. The pastry is then drizzled with sweet syrup and served warm.
We had dinner at a Middle Eastern restaurant during a vacation in Istanbul with my friends. After a delicious meal, I perused the dessert menu and decided to try Znoud El Sit. A middle-aged Lebanese waitress brought it to our table, and I was immediately impressed by the dessert’s delicate appearance.
As we enjoyed our dessert, an argument broke out between customers over political issues. The commotion eventually settled, and I requested the recipe from the restaurant chef. Initially hesitant, he eventually agreed to give it to me. The recipe he shared included phyllo dough, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, rose water, orange blossom water, and rose water syrup.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing Znoud El Sit, there are a few options that can complement this sweet and crispy pastry. Here are some of my favorite pairing suggestions:
- Tea: A cup of hot tea is a classic pairing for Znoud El Sit. Try a black tea or a floral tea like chamomile or lavender to balance out the sweetness of the pastry.
- Arabic coffee: If you prefer coffee, a strong and bold Arabic coffee can be a great pairing. The bitterness of the coffee can cut through the sweetness of the pastry and create a balanced flavor.
- Fresh fruit: A plate of fresh fruit can be a refreshing pairing for this dessert. Try sliced strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi to add acidity to the dish.
- Ice cream: For a decadent pairing, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy and cold texture of the ice cream can balance out the warm and crispy pastry.
Ingredients:
- 12 sheets of phyllo dough
- 1 ½ cups of whole milk
- ½ cup of heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons of white granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of rose water
- 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water
- 2 cups of rose water syrup
How to make Znoud El Sit?
- To prepare the filling, mix the ricotta cheese, sugar, rose water, and orange blossom water in a bowl until well combined. In another bowl, stir together the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch melts. Pour this mix into the cheese blend and stir until it’s all mixed well together.
- Next, cut the phyllo dough into strips that are about 3 inches wide and 12 inches long. Put a spoonful of the cheese mix at one end of each strip. Fold the dough over the filling, shaping it into a triangle. Keep folding until you reach the strip’s end.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the Znoud El Sit until they are golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.
- To make the syrup, mix 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens.
- Drizzle the syrup over it and serve them warm. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations of Znoud El Sit
As a dessert lover, I have tried various types of Znoud El Sit, a popular Middle Eastern dessert. Here are some of the variations that I have come across:
- Traditional Znoud El Sit: This is the classic version, which consists of crispy phyllo pastry rolls filled with sweet cream and drizzled with syrup. The filling can sometimes be flavored with rose water or orange blossom water.
- Chocolate Znoud El Sit: This is a modern twist on the traditional version, where the cream filling is mixed with chocolate to give it a rich and indulgent taste. The chocolate version can be topped with chocolate syrup or sprinkled with cocoa powder.
- Fruit-filled Znoud El Sit: Some pastry chefs experiment with the filling by adding a layer of fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas, to the cream filling. This adds a refreshing twist to the dessert and balances out the sweetness.
- Savory Znoud El Sit: While it is typically a sweet dessert, some chefs have experimented with savory versions. These savory versions can be filled with cheese or meat and served as a snack or appetizer.
This is a versatile dessert that can be customized to suit any taste preference. Whether you prefer the classic version or a modern twist, there is a variation for everyone to enjoy.
Fun Facts About Znoud El Sit
Here are some fun facts about this delicious treat:
- Znoud El Sit is believed to have originated in Lebanon, but it is now enjoyed in many Middle Eastern countries and beyond.
- The dessert is often served on special occasions such as weddings and holidays, but it’s also a popular street food.
- In Lebanon, there is even a festival dedicated to Znoud El Sit, where visitors can sample different variations of the dessert and learn about its history and cultural significance.
Overall, This is a delicious and beloved dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Znoud El Sit is a delicious Lebanese dessert that is loved by many. Its crispy phyllo dough exterior and sweet, creamy filling make it a perfect dessert to enjoy after a meal or as a snack.
While it may seem intimidating to make at home, with a little practice and patience, anyone can create this delectable treat. It is important to note that the filling can be customized to one’s liking, with variations such as pistachio and Nutella being popular choices.
Overall, Znoud El Sit is a dessert that is not to be missed. Whether enjoyed at a Lebanese restaurant or made at home, it is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Before I go, I want you to know that this dessert is perfect after having an Iraqi makhlama.
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image below):
