Künefe

Although the Byzantine Empire collapsed centuries ago, its culture, art, and civilization continue to influence many lands, including present-day Türkiye (Turkey). Türkiye has adopted and developed many culinary traditions, including the sweet pastry Künefe, making it widely known today.

Ancient Origins in Antioch

The origin of Künefe can be traced back to the city of Antakya, located in southeastern Türkiye today. This city was originally known as Antioch in the Byzantine Empire. According to legend, Künefe was first created in this city. The original recipe was said to be made from thin, shredded wheat pastry (Farklı tel tel buğday) mixed with honey and local cheese, a simple yet delightfully sweet and savory combination.

Development in the Ottoman Era: A Dessert for the Elite

Later, during the Ottoman Empire, Künefe underwent further development. The Ottomans elevated Künefe by using a new type of pastry called Kadayıf, which was even thinner, resembling fine vermicelli strands. This was combined with cheese and a new, richer sweet syrup. During this period, Künefe became a favorite dish of the sultans and high-ranking nobility, reflecting the sophistication and luxury of the imperial court.

Widespread Popularity and Regional Variations

As time passed, the popularity of Künefe spread throughout the Middle East and other regions, leading each area to develop its own unique version. Ingredients and presentation were often adapted. For example:

In Gaziantep, a city in southeastern Türkiye, there is a famous Künefe called Antep Künefe. It's made with cheese, crushed pistachios, and Kaymak, a clotted cream made from buffalo, cow, sheep, or goat milk, common in Central Asia. This version of Künefe is currently the most well-known and is often topped with vibrant green crushed pistachios.

In Palestine, Künefe is often made with semolina dough, giving it a distinct texture and flavor compared to the Kadayıf of Türkiye. It's served with a syrup often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water, adding a unique aromatic touch.

A Symbol of Celebration and Global Recognition

Künefe is a popular dessert for various occasions in Türkiye, frequently served at celebrations, social gatherings, and weddings, reflecting its integral role in important cultural events and traditions.

In recent years, Künefe has gained international recognition. Turkish restaurants worldwide are increasingly featuring this delicious dessert. Furthermore, they recommend that tourists and travelers visiting Türkiye should certainly try Künefe. This has made Künefe one of the essential culinary symbols that tourists must experience when visiting Türkiye.

Today, Künefe remains a highly popular dessert, celebrated as one of the finest Turkish sweets, renowned globally. Each culture has developed its own adapted recipes to meet consumer demands, altering both the pastry type and certain ingredients, such as the kind of cheese or the addition of various nuts. Nevertheless, the original essence of Künefe remainsthe fragrant sweetness of the syrup soaking into the crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside pastry, and the gooey, melted cheese.