Kunafa with mango is a twist t on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert, kunafa. This delicious dessert is made with layers of shredded phyllo dough and a sweet cheese filling, but what sets it apart is the addition of fresh mango. The combination of the creamy cheese and sweet mango is simply divine.
To make this, you will need a few key ingredients: frozen kataifi, butter, whipped topping mix, mango juice, ripe mangos, and simple syrup made from sugar, water, and lime juice to drizzle over the top. With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious and unique dessert that will impress your family and friends.
History of Kunafa
Origins
Kunafa has been traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was served to royalty and the wealthy. It is believed that the dessert was created in Damascus, Syria, during the 10th century. The original recipe consisted of cheese, semolina dough, and sugar syrup.
Over time, the recipe evolved, and different variations of Kunafa were created, including this one, which is the focus of this article. Today, Kunafa is enjoyed in many parts of the world and is a popular dessert during Ramadan.
Popularity in the Middle East
Kunafa has become a beloved dessert in the Middle East and is often served on special occasions, such as weddings and religious celebrations. It is also a common dessert during the month of Ramadan, where it is served after sunset to break the fast.
In addition to its cultural significance, kunafa is also popular because of its delicious taste and unique texture. The combination of crispy pastry and soft cheese or cream filling, topped with sweet syrup, creates a flavor and texture experience that is hard to resist.
What is Kunafa?
Definition
Kunafa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert popular in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria. The dish is known for its unique texture and sweet flavor.
Traditional Ingredients
The traditional ingredients used in Kunafa are shredded phyllo dough, cheese, sugar syrup, and butter. The cheese used in Kunafa is usually a white, unsalted cheese that is similar in texture to mozzarella. The phyllo dough is shredded into thin strands and mixed with butter to create a crispy texture. The sugar syrup is made by boiling sugar and water together until it becomes thick and syrupy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of frozen Kataifi (kunafa)
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 2 envelopes of whipping cream (like Dream Whip)
- 3 ripe mangos, diced
- 1 cup of mango juice
For the syrup:
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of lime juice
How to Make Kunafa with Mango?
- Start by rubbing the frozen kunafa with your fingers to cut it into small pieces.
- While doing that, combine the syrup ingredients in a pot and bring it to a boil. Once it begins to boil, lower the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens. Then, let it cool down to room temperature.
- Next, melt butter and add it to the kunafa. Mix the kunafa and butter with your hands until they are well combined.
- Brush two identical oven-safe pans with a tablespoon of melted butter each.
- Use two 12-inch pizza pans for this recipe. Then, spread half of the kunafa in each pan and press it tightly with a bowl.
- Bake the pans in a 350F oven until the kunafa turns golden brown.
- While the kunafa is baking, Prepare the Dream Whip according to the package directions using mango juice.
- When the kunafa is done, drizzle both parts with some syrup.
- Then, turn one part upside down and spread about ⅔ of the cream filling on it. Add mango pieces on top of the cream filling and then place the other half of the kunafa on top.
- Finally, decorate the kunafa with the rest of the whipping cream.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation
This dessert looks impressive and you can serve it in many different styles. One popular option is to serve it in individual portions, either in small bowls or on plates. This allows each person to enjoy their serving and ensures that the dessert stays intact.
Another option is to serve the kunafa in a large baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves to as much or as little as they like. This is a great option for larger gatherings or events.
No matter how you choose to present the kunafa, it’s important to make sure that it looks as good as it tastes. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Accompaniments
While this dessert is delicious on its own, a few accompaniments can take it to the next level. One popular option is to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, sweet kunafa.
Another option is to serve the kunafa with a drizzle of honey or syrup. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps to enhance the flavors of the mango and kunafa.
Finally, consider serving the kunafa with a cup of hot tea or coffee. The warm beverage helps to balance out the sweetness of the dessert and makes for a perfect ending to any meal.
Variations of Kunafa
Regional Twists
In Egypt, kunafa is often served with a side of cream and sprinkled with pistachios. In Turkey, it is common to find kunafa served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey. Meanwhile, in Lebanon, kunafa is typically made with a cheese filling and topped with rosewater syrup.
Alternative Fruits
While the traditional kunafa recipe calls for a filling made with cheese or cream, many have experimented with different fruit fillings. Mango, in particular, has become a popular alternative to traditional fillings. The sweetness of the mango complements the crispy pastry perfectly. Other popular fruit fillings include strawberry, raspberry, and apricot.
Storing and Preservation
As a dessert that is best served fresh, storing and preserving it can be a bit tricky. However, with proper handling and storage, you can enjoy this delectable treat for a longer period.
Firstly, it is important to note that this dessert is best consumed on the day it is made. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Another way to preserve the kunafa is by freezing it. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. The kunafa can be frozen for up to 1 month.
It is important to note that freezing and reheating may affect the texture of the kunafa, and it may not be as crispy as when it is freshly made. However, it is still a great way to enjoy the dessert at a later time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Kunafa is Too Dry
If your kunafa is too dry, it may be because you didn’t use enough syrup. The syrup is what gives the kunafa its moist texture and sweetness. Make sure to evenly pour the syrup over the kunafa once it comes out of the oven. If you find that the kunafa is still too dry, you can also add a little bit of extra syrup on top before serving.
The Kunafa is Too Soggy
On the other hand, if your kunafa is too soggy, it may be because you used too much syrup. While it’s important to use enough syrup to keep the kunafa moist, too much syrup can make it overly wet and soggy. Make sure to use the recommended amount of syrup in the recipe, and if you find that the kunafa is still too soggy, you can try reducing the amount of syrup you use next time.
The Mango is Too Tart
If your mango is too tart, it may be because it’s not ripe enough. Ripe mangoes are sweeter and have a softer texture, which is ideal for kunafa. Make sure to choose mangoes that are ripe but still firm to the touch. You can also add a little bit of sugar to the mango mixture to sweeten it up if necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kunafa with mango is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of the sweet, creamy mango and the crispy, buttery kunafa is simply irresistible.
One of the best things about this dessert is its versatility. It can be easily customized to suit your preferences. For example, you can add nuts, honey, or even chocolate to give it a unique twist.
Another great thing about it is that it is relatively easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create this delicious dessert.
Overall, I highly recommend trying Kunafa with mango if you haven’t already. It’s a perfect dessert for anyone who loves sweet, fruity treats, and it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Did you know? This is a great dessert after having moussaka.
Get this moussaka recipe now (by clicking the image below):
