Ktefa

Ingredients

• 250 g (9 oz)warqa or phyllo
• 200 g (7 oz)almonds, fried and ground
• 80 g (3 oz)powdered sugar
• 1 tspcinnamon
• 500 ml (2 cups)milk
• 2 tbsporange blossom water
• 2 tbspbutter
• pinchsalt

Method

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 200 g (7 oz) of fried and ground almonds with 80 g (3 oz) of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is evenly coated and aromatic, with the cinnamon's warm scent mingling with the almonds.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, use a pastry brush to lightly coat a baking dish or tray with a thin layer of butter. This will prevent the warqa or phyllo from sticking and ensure a crispy texture.
3. If using warqa or phyllo sheets, lay one sheet flat in the buttered dish. Scatter a thin, even layer of the almond mixture over the sheet. Repeat this process, layering and scattering the almond mixture between each sheet, until all sheets are used. Alternatively, if you prefer a fried version, heat a pan over medium heat and fry individual leaves until they turn a light golden color, then set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine 500 ml (2 cups) of milk with 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warm and fragrant but not boiling. The aroma of the orange blossom water should be prominent.
5. Carefully pour the warm milk mixture over the layered or fried warqa, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Allow the pastry to absorb the milk without collapsing, which should take a few minutes. The sheets should be moist but still hold their shape.
6. Let the Ktefa rest for 20 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, resulting in a harmonious blend of crisp and soft layers.
7. Before serving, ensure the Ktefa has cooled to a pleasant temperature. Dust the top with a light sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve cool, allowing the delicate fragrance and texture to be fully appreciated.