Lemon-Drizzled Ricotta-Filled Fried Katayef

Recipe Collection: Dessert

Lemon-Drizzled Ricotta-Filled Fried Katayef is a traditional Egyptian dessert that features a crispy shell filled with rich ricotta cheese and topped with a tangy lemon syrup. This vegetarian treat is perfect for those who appreciate a sweet, citrusy finish to their meals.

With its unique flavor profile, this recipe is versatile enough to serve as a delightful dessert or a special occasion treat. You can easily select this recipe from the easyChef Pro App, where you’ll find personalized recommendations, AI-powered pantry tracking, and a smart shopping list to streamline your meal prep.

Overview

This delightful Egyptian dessert, Fried Katayef, combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with a crispy fried shell, all drenched in a tangy lemon syrup. Perfect for those who enjoy a sweet treat with a hint of citrus.

Diet Type

Vegetarian

Allergies

Dairy, Gluten

Cuisine

Egyptian

Serving Size: 8

Cooking Time: 90 minutes

Ingredients

• 1.5 Cups (cups) water
• 1 Cup (cup) white sugar
• 1 Teaspoon (tsp) fresh lemon juice
• 8 Ounces (oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 Teaspoon (tsp) cornstarch
• 2.5 Cups (cups) all-purpose flour
• 0.375 Ounces (oz) active dry yeast
• 3 Cups (cups) water
• 3 Cups (cups) oil, for frying

Steps

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1.5 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Stir until the mixture thickens, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together 8 ounces of ricotta cheese and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour with 0.375 ounces of active dry yeast. Gradually stir in 3 cups of water, 1 cup at a time, whisking to remove any lumps until the mixture is pourable. Allow the dough to rest for 1 hour.
4. Cook the Katayef Shells: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Pour 2 to 3 ounces of batter into the center of the skillet, forming a round shape. Cook until the top is dry and the bottom is slightly browned.
5. Fill the Shells: Place an equal portion of the cheese mixture onto each shell. Fold the shell over the filling and pinch the edges to seal into a semi-circle.
6. Fry the Katayef: Heat 3 cups of oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Fry the filled katayef until crispy and lightly browned.
7. Coat with Syrup: Immerse the fried katayef in the prepared syrup to coat. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon-Drizzled Ricotta-Filled Fried Katayef!