When I made this recipe for the first time I wasn't planning on calling it Knefeh, since it is nothing like the traditional dish. Then I discovered that it has all the Knefeh charm; oozy interior, rich fried exterior, drizzled with honey, and just perfect. It is definitely a lighter, easier, more colorful version of your usual Knefeh. Make it and thank me later!
Whisk vermicelli, walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, sugar, and scatter the crust mixture in a large shallow plate. Mix the beaten eggs with the orange zest and pour them in a similar plate.
Dip the Akkawi through the egg, turning to coat, remove and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the Akkawi through the crust mixture, turning to coat and pressing gently to adhere. Heat the oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the coated cheese and cook for 4-5 Minutes minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melting. It might take more time for the cheese to melt; this depends on the Akkawi's consistency. Just keep the heat medium and be patient.
Meanwhile cut the orange and the apple into thin slices. Arrange the fruit slices, grapes, crackers, and almonds on a board leaving the center for the Knefeh.
Turn the heat off and serve the Knefeh immediately. Place it in the center of the board, drizzle it with honey, and enjoy with crackers and fruits!
Ingredients
Directions
Whisk vermicelli, walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, sugar, and scatter the crust mixture in a large shallow plate. Mix the beaten eggs with the orange zest and pour them in a similar plate.
Dip the Akkawi through the egg, turning to coat, remove and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the Akkawi through the crust mixture, turning to coat and pressing gently to adhere. Heat the oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the coated cheese and cook for 4-5 Minutes minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melting. It might take more time for the cheese to melt; this depends on the Akkawi's consistency. Just keep the heat medium and be patient.
Meanwhile cut the orange and the apple into thin slices. Arrange the fruit slices, grapes, crackers, and almonds on a board leaving the center for the Knefeh.
Turn the heat off and serve the Knefeh immediately. Place it in the center of the board, drizzle it with honey, and enjoy with crackers and fruits!