Kataifi with cheese

Cheese Kataif: A Traditional Delight for Holiday Meals

Cheese kataif is a dessert that brings a touch of magic to the holiday table, transforming any occasion into a special moment. This recipe is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that combines unique textures and flavors, making it perfect for surprising your guests or pampering your family. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare this simple and delicious dessert.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 500 g kataif (thawed)
- 2 cups feta cheese
- ½ cup roquefort cheese
- 1 cup gouda, emmental, or gruyère cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 6 eggs
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- ½ cup margarine
- ½ cup butter

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the cheese: Start by grating the feta cheese using a large grater. This will help to evenly incorporate the cheese into the dessert mixture. Set aside for now.

2. Egg and cheese mixture: Crack the 3 eggs into a large bowl and beat them lightly with a whisk. Add the grated feta cheese, roquefort cheese, and gouda cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will be the heart of the dessert, bringing a delicious combination of flavors.

3. Thawing the kataif: If the kataif is frozen, let it thaw naturally for about 20 minutes. Once thawed, carefully unravel it and place it on a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.

4. Preparing the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent the kataif from sticking.

5. Layering the kataif: Place half of the kataif in the prepared baking dish. It is essential to spread the kataif evenly, without leaving it in clumps, to allow for even baking.

6. Adding the margarine: Melt the margarine and pour it evenly over the layer of kataif in the dish. This will provide a rich flavor and help form a delicious crust.

7. Adding the cheese mixture: Pour the cheese mixture over the layer of kataif in the dish, ensuring it is distributed evenly.

8. Finishing the dessert: Place the remaining kataif on top of the cheese mixture, covering everything. Pour the melted butter on top for added flavor.

9. Preparing the sour cream: In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the milk and the remaining 3 eggs. Pour the mixture evenly over the entire dessert in the dish. This step will add a fine and creamy texture.

10. Cooling and baking: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld. Then, bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the dessert turns a delicious golden color.

Helpful tip for an intense flavor:

If you are a cheese lover, feel free to add more roquefort cheese to the mixture. This will intensify the flavors and add a distinct note. Conversely, if you want a lighter dessert, you can omit the butter or margarine without significantly affecting the texture.

Nutritional benefits:

Cheese kataif is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheeses, providing an excellent source of calcium. Feta cheese and the other cheeses contribute to the intake of essential vitamins, such as B12 and riboflavin, necessary for optimal health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I substitute feta cheese with something else? Yes, you can use goat cheese or any other type of cheese with a similar texture.
- How can I store cheese kataif? Keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can also be enjoyed cold, tasting delicious.
- Is it possible to freeze it? While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked kataif. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Serving recommendations:

Cheese kataif can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile dessert. It pairs perfectly with a yogurt or sour cream sauce, adding a fresh note. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail can perfectly complement the meal.

Interesting variations:

For those who love culinary experimentation, try adding some herbs, such as dill or parsley, to the cheese mixture. These will provide a fresh taste and a unique aroma.

Now that you have gone through each step, all that’s left is to enjoy cheese kataif, a dessert that will quickly become a favorite among your loved ones. Preparing this dessert will surely bring smiles and appreciation, turning holiday meals into memorable moments. Enjoy your meal!