Mastering Kataifi: A Sweet Journey into Greek Dessert Delights

 Say goodbye to your search for where to buy Kataifi - we've got you covered! Explore the simplicity of crafting a traditional Greek almond and walnut pastry in syrup with our user-friendly recipe. Kataifi, known as "κανταΐφι" in Greek, has graced traditional Greek cuisine since the Ottoman Empire, featuring a distinctive pastry dough resembling delicate, thread-like strands, akin to vermicelli noodles but with its unique allure.

To create your kataifi masterpiece, gather these essential ingredients: kataifi shredded filo dough, butter, walnuts, sugar, water, lemon zest, and a cinnamon stick. Kataifi filo dough is composed of a blend of flour, cornstarch, salt, oil, and water. While you can make it from scratch, it's far more convenient to procure pre-made kataifi shredded filo dough, readily available in many delicatessens, gourmet shops, and Greek food stores.

Phonetically, the Greek pastry is pronounced as "cat-eye-E-fee," although you might also come across alternative spellings like kadaif, kadaifi, or kanafeh.

When handling kataifi, remember the same principles as working with phyllo dough: ensure thorough defrosting, work swiftly and maintain moisture. Much like baklava, this splendid Greek dessert calls for a generous drenching of syrup post-baking. This syrup not only infuses sweetness but also acts as a natural preservative, extending kataifi's shelf life. As a result, kataifi proudly claims its place in the illustrious category of "syropiasta" desserts.

Our authentic kataifi dessert recipe demands just 30 minutes of preparation and 60 minutes of cooking, yielding a delightful set of 10 pieces. Whether you're a seasoned culinary expert or an aspiring home cook, mastering kataifi promises both gastronomic satisfaction and an opportunity to savor a slice of Greek culinary heritage.

kataifi recipe

Kataifi Dessert - Ingredients

  • 250g of kataifi dough
  • 75g of butter
  • 120g of walnuts, chopped

For the kataifi syrup:

  • 200g sugar
  • 200ml water
  • lemon zest from ½ lemon
  • 1 cinnamon stick

How to Make Kataifi

  1. Start this Greek kataifi dessert recipe by chopping the almonds. Make them coarsely grounded with the help of a mixer. 
  2. Take a baking pan and cover it with parchment paper. Melt the butter in a small saucepan and using a brush, lightly grease the lined tray on which the kataifi will be baked.
  3.  Lay the kataifi dough on your working surface and divide it into 8 – 10 pieces by gently spreading the strands and fluffing it. Each piece will be used to create an individual kataifi roll.
  4.  Brush each piece with melted butter. Place a tablespoon of chopped almonds and walnut at one end of the strip and roll up into a cylinder, tucking in any stray pieces of dough. 
  5. Roll the pastry tightly so that the filling is securely enclosed. 
  6. Place it on your baking tin and continue with the next piece.
  7. The unused dough is better to be kept between damp towels (not soaked) to maintain its moisture.
  8. Place the rolls seam-side down on the lined baking tray, close together but not squashed, and brush well with the remaining butter. 
  9. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until golden brown and crispy looking.
  10. In the meantime prepare the syrup. Put all the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. 
  11. Simmer for 2 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved. 
  12. Allow cooling at room temperature.
  13. Remove the kataifi from the oven and, while still hot, pour the syrup with a spoon, slowly, to let the kataifi absorb it. Let it rest for at least 3 hours before serving. 
Greek dessert kataifi can be stored at room temperature, and covered, for several days. Check out this kataifi ekmek recipe for a richer taste. 

Mastering the art of making kataifi at home allows you to indulge in a sweet, crispy, and nutty dessert that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This elegant treat will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests. So, don your apron, follow our recipe, and let kataifi transport you to the heart of Greece one delectable bite at a time. Enjoy!