Kataifi with custard and cream is suitable for special occasions and celebrations. Its elegant appearance and delicious taste make it a dessert that can elevate any festive gathering.
Remember, while enjoying this dessert, you can always adjust the sweetness and flavours according to your preferences, making it a versatile and personalized treat.
But how do you prepare yours?
Kataifi Recipe With Custard and Cream
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Oven
- Cooling rack
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 500g Kataifi pastry
- 200g finely chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 250g granulated sugar (for syrup)
- 250ml water (for syrup)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for syrup)
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional, for syrup)
- 200g unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the syrup by combining sugar and water in a saucepan. Stir until sugar dissolves, then add lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, mix chopped nuts, cinnamon, cloves, and granulated sugar for the filling.
- Gently separate Kataifi pastry strands and brush with melted butter.
- Shape handfuls of Kataifi into rectangles, placing a teaspoon of filling in the centre. Roll and repeat with the remaining pastry and filling.
- Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once baked, cool the rolls briefly and pour the cooled syrup over them, allowing them to absorb.
- Serve the Kataifi warm, garnished with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts if desired.
Video
Tips on Preparing Perfect with Kataifi With Custard
Is having all the ingredients all you need? You need to follow instructions, like the ones below:
1. Quality Ingredients Matter
Start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use a good brand of kataifi pastry, fresh eggs for the custard, and high-quality cream. The better the ingredients, the more impressive the final result.
2. Properly Thaw the Kataifi Pastry
If you’re using frozen kataifi pastry, make sure to thaw it properly. Take it out of the freezer and let it come to room temperature before working with it. This ensures that the pastry remains pliable and easy to handle.
3. Brushing Layers with Butter
Kataifi pastry is known for its crispy texture, and brushing each layer with melted butter is crucial. This not only adds flavour but also helps in achieving that golden, crispy finish. Take your time and brush each layer evenly.
4. Evenly Spread the Kataifi Layers
As you layer the kataifi pastry, ensure an even distribution to create a consistent texture throughout the dessert. Avoid clumps or uneven layers that might result in uneven baking.
5. Customizing the Custard
Experiment with the custard flavour to suit your taste. Add a touch of vanilla extract, a hint of citrus zest, or even a splash of your favourite liqueur to enhance the custard’s depth and complexity.
6. Balancing Sweetness
Taste your custard mixture before pouring it over the kataifi. Adjust the sweetness if necessary, as personal preferences vary. Remember that the kataifi itself will add sweetness, so find the right balance for your palate.
7. Proper Baking Techniques
Bake the kataifi with custard in a preheated oven at the recommended temperature. Keep a close eye on it to avoid over-browning. A golden hue is desirable, indicating a perfectly baked kataifi with a crispy exterior.
8. Allow Sufficient Cooling Time
After baking, allow the dessert to cool before serving. This helps the custard set and allows the kataifi to firm up, resulting in a better texture and easier slicing.
What To Have With Kataifi and Custard
Kataifi and Custard are mouth-watering, but what if there are other dishes to take them with?
1. Fresh Berries and Fruits
The natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the custard. Alternatively, sliced kiwi or passion fruit can add a tropical twist.
2. Nutty Crunch
Add a satisfying crunch to your dessert by incorporating chopped nuts. Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pistachios not only complement the kataifi’s crispy texture but also bring a nutty depth that pairs wonderfully with the custard.
3. Honey Drizzle
A drizzle of honey over the kataifi and custard not only adds a touch of sweetness but also introduces a distinct floral note
4. Caramel Sauce
Elevate the indulgence by drizzling caramel sauce over the dessert. The buttery richness of caramel enhances the sweetness of the custard while providing a smooth and velvety contrast.
5. Chocolate Ganache
For chocolate lovers, a decadent chocolate ganache can take your Kataifi and Custard to new heights. The combination of creamy custard, crispy kataifi, and rich chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven.
6. Citrus Zest
Brighten it up with a sprinkle of citrus zest. Whether it’s orange, lemon, or lime, the citrusy notes can cut through the richness and add a refreshing element to each bite.
7. Whipped Cream
Consider infusing the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or a splash of liqueur for added sophistication.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream
Take your Kataifi and Custard to the next level by serving it with a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm kataifi and custard.
9. Mint Garnish
A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a mint-infused syrup can provide a refreshing and aromatic element to the dessert, balancing out the sweetness with a hint of herbal freshness.
10. Espresso or Coffee
Pairing Kataifi and Custard with a cup of strong coffee or espresso can be a delightful way to round off the meal. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the dessert.
How Do I Prevent Kataifi Rolls From Getting Too Soggy?
To prevent Kataifi rolls from becoming too soggy, follow these key tips. First, ensure that the filling, especially custard or any liquid components, is adequately thickened to avoid excess moisture. Secondly, prebake the Kataifi pastry before adding the filling to create a protective layer that helps retain its crispiness. Allow the baked Kataifi to cool before filling to minimize condensation.
If you are using fruits as a filling, pat them dry to remove excess moisture and prevent it from seeping into the pastry. Lastly, serve the Kataifi rolls immediately after assembly to maintain their crispy texture. If preparing in advance, store the unfilled Kataifi separately from the filling and assemble just before serving to preserve the delightful crunchiness of the rolls.
Can I Use Different Nuts in the Filling?
Using different nuts in the filling of your Kataifi can add a delightful variety of flavours and textures. Consider a mix of toasted almonds, walnuts, and pistachios to create a nutty medley that complements the crispy layers of shredded phyllo dough. The almonds bring a subtle sweetness, the walnuts contribute a rich and earthy taste, and the pistachios add a unique crunch.
Experimenting with various nuts allows you to tailor the filling to your preference, providing a personalized touch to this classic dessert. Just ensure the nuts are finely chopped for an even distribution throughout the Kataifi, enhancing each bite with a symphony of nutty goodness.
