Kunafa is one of the most famous Middle Eastern desserts, widely popular for its variety of preparation methods and flavors. Adding mastic to kunafa gives it a unique taste and an enticing aromatic fragrance, making it a great choice for lovers of traditional Arabic sweets. In this recipe, we will learn how to prepare kunafa with mastic using precise ingredients and easy steps for a delightful taste.

Ingredients

1. Kunafa Ingredients

• 500g fine kunafa
• 200g melted butter
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp ground mastic

2. Filling Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cream or whipping cream
• 2 tsp ground mastic dissolved in 1 tsp warm water
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (optional)

3. Syrup Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ tsp ground mastic
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp orange blossom water or rose water (optional)

4. For Garnishing

• Crushed pistachios
• A pinch of ground mastic (optional)
• Syrup as desired

How to Make Kunafa with Mastic

1. Time Duration

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

2. Preparation Steps in Detail

Preparing the Syrup:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the ground mastic and lemon juice, then let the mixture boil for 7-10 minutes until the syrup thickens.
3. Add the orange blossom water or rose water (optional), then remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Preparing the Kunafa

In a large bowl, gently rub the kunafa, then add the powdered sugar and ground mastic, mixing well.

Pour the melted butter over the kunafa and mix thoroughly until the butter is evenly distributed.

Divide the kunafa into two equal portions.

Filling the Kunafa

In a buttered baking pan, spread half of the kunafa evenly and press it down gently.

Mix the cream with the dissolved mastic and sweetened condensed milk, then evenly distribute the mixture over the kunafa, avoiding the edges.

Place the remaining half of the kunafa over the filling, spreading it well and pressing lightly to ensure the layers hold together.

Baking the Kunafa

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Place the baking pan in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the kunafa turns golden and crispy.

Remove the kunafa from the oven and immediately pour the cold syrup over it while it’s still hot. Let it absorb the syrup for a few minutes.

Serving

Cut the kunafa into equal pieces and serve warm to enjoy its crispy texture and creamy filling.

Garnishing

Garnish the kunafa with crushed pistachios and a light sprinkle of ground mastic for extra flavor.

You can also drizzle some extra syrup according to taste before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Recipe & Avoiding Mistakes for Beginners

• Use fresh kunafa and loosen it well before mixing it with butter to ensure even distribution.
• Spread the filling evenly without touching the edges to prevent burning during baking.
• Avoid using excessive butter to prevent an overly greasy texture; it’s best to pour it gradually.
• Always preheat the oven to a moderate temperature (180°C) for an even golden color.
• Pour the cold syrup over the hot kunafa immediately to allow proper absorption without making it too soggy.

Healthier Ingredient Substitutes

• Butter alternative: Coconut oil or plant-based butter to reduce saturated fats.
• Sugar alternative for the syrup: Natural honey or coconut sugar for fewer calories.
• Cream alternative: Greek yogurt or coconut cream for more protein and lower fat.
• Traditional kunafa alternative: Whole grain kunafa or oats for added fiber.

Side Dishes to Serve with Kunafa with Mastic

• Arabic or Turkish coffee – Enhances the mastic flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Mint tea – Soothes digestion after a rich dessert.
• Fresh orange juice – Adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness.
• Yogurt with fruits – Reduces heaviness and provides a refreshing option.

Alternative Recipes for Enhanced Health Benefits

• Oat Kunafa instead of traditional kunafa for more fiber.
• Honey Kunafa instead of syrup to reduce added sugar.
• Nut and Date Filling instead of cream for added nutritional benefits.
• Almond Flour instead of some kunafa ingredients to lower carbohydrates.

Warnings for Vegetarians, Chronic Disease Patients, Dieters, and Children

For Vegetarians:

• Replace butter with coconut oil and cream with plant-based cream.
• Avoid honey in the syrup if following a strict vegan diet.

For Diabetics:

• Prefer natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey instead of white sugar.
• Reduce syrup quantity and avoid excessive kunafa consumption to prevent blood sugar spikes.

For Dieters:

• Reduce butter and use whole grain kunafa.
• Replace cream with nuts or Greek yogurt to lower fat and increase protein.

For Lactose-Intolerant Individuals:

• Use plant-based alternatives like almond cream or coconut cream instead of traditional cream.

For Children:

• Reduce sugar, replace syrup with honey, and add fruits to the filling for more nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kunafa with Mastic

1. How can I keep kunafa crispy?
Use a moderate amount of melted butter and distribute it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at a medium temperature until golden.

2. Can kunafa with mastic be made without butter?
Yes, you can replace butter with coconut oil or plant-based ghee for a similar result.

3. What is a healthy substitute for sugar in the syrup?
You can use natural honey, coconut sugar, or stevia to reduce calories.

4. How can I prevent kunafa from becoming soggy after adding the syrup?
Ensure the syrup is cold and the kunafa is hot when adding it, and avoid using too much syrup.

5. What is the best alternative filling for cream?
A mix of ground nuts with dates or Greek yogurt is a great healthy option.

6. Can kunafa with mastic be prepared in advance?
Yes, it can be baked ahead of time and slightly reheated before serving with syrup.

7. Can liquid mastic be used instead of ground mastic?
Yes, dissolve it in a little warm water before adding it to the ingredients for a well-blended flavor.

8. What is the best type of kunafa to use for this recipe?
Fine kunafa is the best choice as it absorbs the flavor well and provides a cohesive texture.

9. Can this recipe be made without an oven?
Yes, kunafa can be cooked on the stovetop in a non-stick pan over low heat until golden on both sides.

10. How long does kunafa last after preparation?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat slightly before serving to maintain its texture.

Nutritional Values, Calories, and Health Benefits of Each Ingredient

1. Kunafa Ingredients

1- Fine Kunafa (500g)

• Calories: 1800-2000 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Carbohydrates: 400-450g
  • Fat: 5-10g
  • Protein: 40-50g
• Health Benefits:
  Provides energy but is low in fiber and essential nutrients.

2- Melted Butter (200g)

• Calories: 1400-1500 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Fat: 160-170g
  • Carbohydrates: 2-5g
  • Protein: 2-5g
• Health Benefits:
  Gives kunafa a crispy texture and rich flavor but is high in saturated fats, so it should be consumed in moderation.

3- Powdered Sugar (2 tbsp)

• Calories: 90-100 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
• Health Benefits:
  Adds sweetness but rapidly raises blood sugar levels.

4- Ground Mastic (1/2 tsp)

• Calories: Almost none
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no carbohydrates, fat, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Aids digestion and adds a unique flavor to kunafa.

2. Filling Ingredients

1- Cream or Whipping Cream (1 cup)

• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Fat: 30-40g
  • Carbohydrates: 10-15g
  • Protein: 5-8g
• Health Benefits:
  Rich in fat and protein but high in saturated fats.

2- Ground Mastic (2 tsp)

• Calories: Almost none
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no carbohydrates, fat, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Contains antioxidants that support digestive health.

3- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1/2 cup) (Optional)

• Calories: 160-180 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Fat: 2-5g
  • Protein: 3-5g
• Health Benefits:
  Adds a sweet flavor and creamy texture but is high in sugar and calories.

3. Syrup (Qater) Ingredients

1- Sugar (1 cup)

• Calories: 770-800 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Carbohydrates: 200g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
• Health Benefits:
  Gives kunafa its sweet taste but quickly raises blood sugar levels.

2- Water (1/2 cup)

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no fat, carbohydrates, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Helps dissolve sugar and evenly distribute flavor.

3- Ground Mastic (1/2 tsp)

• Calories: Almost none
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no carbohydrates, fat, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Enhances the syrup’s flavor and aids digestion.

4- Lemon Juice (1 tsp)

• Calories: 3-5 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
• Health Benefits:
  Helps prevent sugar crystallization and adds a balanced flavor to the syrup.

5- Orange Blossom Water or Rose Water (1 tsp) (Optional)

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no fat, carbohydrates, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Adds an aromatic flavor without affecting nutritional value.

4. Toppings

1- Crushed Pistachios (as desired)

• Calories: 50-60 kcal per tablespoon
• Nutritional Values:
  • Fat: 4-5g
  • Carbohydrates: 2-3g
  • Protein: 2g
• Health Benefits:
  Rich in healthy fats and protein, supports heart health, and adds a crunchy texture.

2- Ground Mastic (a pinch, optional)

• Calories: Almost none
• Nutritional Values:
  • Contains no fat, carbohydrates, or protein
• Health Benefits:
  Adds a distinctive flavor and aids digestion.

3- Syrup (as desired)

• Calories: Depends on the amount used
• Nutritional Values:
  • High in carbohydrates
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
• Health Benefits:
  Gives kunafa a soft texture and sweet flavor but is high in sugar and calories.

Nutritional Values & Health Benefits of Mastic Kunafa

1. Nutritional Values & Calories

• Total Calories: 4500-5000 kcal (for a tray serving 8-10 people)
• Carbohydrates: 600-650g
• Fat: 250-280g
• Protein: 50-70g

2. Summary of Health Benefits

• Provides energy due to its carbohydrate and fat content.
• Supports heart health thanks to pistachios and mastic, which help lower bad cholesterol.
• Aids digestion, as mastic and nuts support the digestive system.
• Rich in antioxidants that protect against inflammation.
• Enhances brain health due to its beneficial fatty acids.