Discover Dubai's Best Knafeh: A Guide To The Top 5 Must-Try Varieties

Knafeh, a delectable dessert made with cheese pastry and soaked in sweet syrup, is cherished across the Middle East. Dubai, known for its cultural diversity, offers an array of knafeh styles that are sure to delight your palate. Here are five must-try types of knafeh during your visit to Dubai:

Ashta Knafeh

Ashta Knafeh takes the classic version up a notch by adding a layer of clotted cream (ashta) in the center. This addition brings a rich and creamy element that perfectly balances the crispy kataifi and sweet syrup. It's an indulgent treat that offers a luxurious experience.

Nabulsi Knafeh

Nabulsi Knafeh is the most traditional form of this dessert. It consists of two layers of crispy shredded phyllo dough, known as kataifi, filled with soft white cheese. This cheese is typically made from goat's milk in Nablus, Palestine. The dish is then drenched in fragrant sugar syrup. The unsalted cheese allows the sweetness of the syrup to shine.

Kanafeh Bil-Jibn

Kanafeh Bil-Jibn introduces cheese curds (jibn) as the filling instead of the traditional white cheese. The cheese curds provide a different texture and a tangier flavour profile compared to the original version, making it a delightful twist on the classic knafeh.

Harees Knafeh

Harees Knafeh stands out with its unique base layer made of semolina pudding (harees) instead of kataifi dough. This variant adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft cheese and often features crispy nuts sprinkled on top, making it visually appealing as well.

Nutella Knafeh

Nutella Knafeh is a modern take on this traditional dessert, popular among those with a sweet tooth. It replaces the traditional cheese filling with Nutella, the beloved hazelnut chocolate spread. The combination of crispy kataifi, Nutella's rich chocolatey flavour, and sweet syrup creates an irresistible indulgence.

These are just some of the many delicious variations of knafeh you can find in Dubai. With its vibrant culinary scene, Dubai is a paradise for food enthusiasts eager to explore diverse flavours and textures. So grab a fork and embark on your own knafeh adventure in this dynamic city!