Kataifi
Kataifi is a traditional Greek dessert prepared with shredded phyllo dough, filled with an excellent nut mixture, and soaked in aromatic honey syrup.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl (for combining the nuts and spices)
- 1 Baking Dish (to bake the kataifi rolls)
- 1 Saucepan (to prepare the syrup)
Ingredients
For the Kataifi:
- 500 g kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
- 200 g walnuts, chopped
- 200 g almonds, chopped
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tbsp ground cloves
- 200 g unsalted butter, melted
For the Syrup:
- 300 g sugar
- 250 ml water
- 150 g honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 slice of lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling (10 minutes): In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, almonds, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. This will be the filling for the kataifi.
- Assemble the Kataifi (20 minutes): Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take small amounts of kataifi dough and gently spread it out. Place a tablespoon of the nut mixture in the center and roll the dough around the filling, forming a cylinder. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used. Place the filled rolls in a buttered baking dish.
- Butter and Bake (45 minutes): Brush the assembled kataifi rolls generously with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Make the Syrup (10 minutes): While the kataifi bakes, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, cinnamon stick, and lemon slice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly.
- Syrup the Kataifi (5 minutes): Once the kataifi is baked and still hot, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the pastry. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Kataifi can be served warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy this delightful Greek dessert with a cup of Greek coffee or tea!