Hatay künefe is a type of dessert that captivates with its taste and presentation, considered one of the gastronomic treasures of Turkey. The magnificent harmony of cheese, kadaifi, and syrup in this dessert has made it famous not only in Turkey but also worldwide. Here is a detailed article about the history, culture, preparation, and ingredients of Hatay künefe.
History
The history of Hatay künefe dates back to the 15th century. During that period, Arab pastry chefs living in Antakya started to make a dessert called “künefe.” This dessert was prepared by sweetening cheese and kadaifi with syrup. Künefe quickly became popular in Antakya and its surroundings.
With the Ottoman Empire capturing Antakya in the 16th century, künefe entered Ottoman cuisine. Künefe, which was also appreciated in the Ottoman palace, soon spread to all corners of the empire.
During the Republic period, with the annexation of Hatay to Turkey, künefe became an important part of Turkish cuisine. Today, Hatay künefe is a well-known and beloved dessert not only in Turkey but also worldwide.
Culture
Hatay künefe is not only significant for its taste but also culturally. Künefe is one of the symbols of Hatay and forms an important part of the city’s cultural heritage.
In Hatay, künefe is served on special occasions and celebrations. Cutting künefe is a tradition at weddings, circumcision ceremonies, holidays, and other special occasions.
Künefe is not just a dessert in Hatay but also a means of socializing. After dinner, people from Hatay usually gather in cafes and restaurants to eat künefe and chat.
Preparation
Preparing Hatay künefe requires a meticulous process. First, the kadaifi is separated into thin strands and fried in butter. Then, specially prepared cheese is placed on the fried kadaifi.
After placing the kadaifi and cheese on the tray, they are baked in the oven. The baked künefe is sweetened with syrup and served decorated with pistachios or walnuts.
Ingredients
The main ingredients of Hatay künefe are:
- Kadaifi
- Cheese
- Butter
- Syrup
- Pistachios or walnuts
Kadaifi is a type of dough specially produced and found in thin strands. Cheese is usually a type of cheese made from goat’s milk and specially prepared for künefe. Butter is used to fry the kadaifi. Syrup is a sweetener made from water, sugar, and lemon juice. Pistachios or walnuts are used to decorate the künefe.
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