VIRAL PISTACHIO KUNAFA SANDWICH

Creating this recipe was a delightful journey into combining traditional Middle Eastern flavours with modern twists. Inspired by the viral kunafa chocolate trend, I decided to experiment and adapt this beloved dessert into a unique sandwich format and create a Pistachio Kunafa Sandwich. The idea came to me one afternoon while reminiscing about my first taste of kunafa in a bustling market in Istanbul. The combination of crunchy kunafa dough, rich pistachios, and sweet chocolate had left a lasting impression on me. With this recipe, I wanted to bring that experience into a more accessible and convenient form.

Starting with the blend of pistachios and white chocolate, the process felt almost magical as the mixture transformed into a smooth, luscious paste. Incorporating the traditional roasted vermicelli, which is typically found in kunafa, added the perfect crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Sandwiching this mixture between slices of bread was a stroke of genius, turning an intricate dessert into something that can be enjoyed on the go, yet still feels indulgent and special.

Every time I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to that vibrant market, surrounded by the sounds and smells of freshly made sweets. It’s a reminder of how food can bridge different cultures and bring joy in simple, unexpected forms. I hope this recipe brings a bit of that magic to your kitchen, offering a delightful treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

INGREDIENTS USED IN VIRAL PISTACHIO KUNAFA SANDWICH

• Pistachios

Pistachios provide a distinct, rich, and slightly sweet nutty flavour that complements the white chocolate’s sweetness.  When blended into a paste, pistachios help to bind the vermicelli and other ingredients together, ensuring that the filling stays cohesive and doesn’t fall apart when the sandwiches are cooked.

When blended with white chocolate, pistachios transform into a smooth, creamy paste. This texture is essential for creating a luscious filling that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vermicelli. They are also rich in protein and dietary fibre, making the sandwich a more nutritious option also.

The green hue of the pistachios complements the creamy white chocolate and golden vermicelli, enhancing the overall presentation of the dish.

• White chocolate

White chocolate acts as a binder, helping to hold the pistachio paste together. This ensures that the filling remains cohesive and doesn’t fall apart when combined with the vermicelli. As the white chocolate cools, it helps to firm up the filling, providing structure and stability. This makes the filling easier to handle and helps it maintain its shape during cooking and serving.

White chocolate contributes to the rich, indulgent mouthfeel of the filling, making each bite creamy and satisfying. This luxurious texture elevates the overall eating experience, making the sandwich feel more special and decadent.

• Vermicelli or Kunafa dough

Vermicelli refers to thin, long strands of pasta, often made from wheat flour, used in a variety of culinary applications, from savoury dishes to desserts. Kunafa dough, also known as kataifi, is a similar type of shredded pastry dough used primarily in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean desserts. It has a unique, crunchy texture when cooked and is often soaked in sweet syrup. I have used vermicelli in this recipe as it is more easily accessible across India.

Vermicelli or kunafa dough provides a crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy pistachio and white chocolate filling. The process of toasting vermicelli releases a pleasant aroma, adding an extra layer of sensory enjoyment to the dish. When mixed with the pistachio paste, vermicelli forms a firm layer that holds its shape during cooking, preventing the filling from becoming too runny or collapsing.

• Bread

Bread acts as the structural base of the sandwich, providing a sturdy foundation to hold the pistachio and white chocolate vermicelli filling. When buttered and toasted, the bread becomes crispy and golden brown on the outside, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy, rich filling. When spread with butter and toasted, the bread absorbs the buttery flavour, adding a layer of richness that complements the filling without overpowering it. You can use different types of bread, such as whole wheat, brioche, or sourdough, to alter the flavour and texture profile of the sandwich.

EQUIPMENTS USED IN VIRAL PISTACHIO KUNAFA SANDWICH

Not a lot of equipment is required to make this Viral Pistachio Kunafa Sandwich. However, a few kitchen staples that should always be there in the kitchen are mentioned below.

Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons are the first thing that anybody who in cooking or baking needs. The right quantities will help in the desired outcome so these two things are a must.

A strong blender is necessary to make the pistachio and white chocolate paste. Spatulas are useful to scrape down the filling.

Finally, a skillet pan to cook the sandwich on is also required.

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TIPS TO MAKE THIS VIRAL PISTACHIO KUNAFA SANDWICH

1. Ensure you use a high-powered blender or food processor to achieve a smooth paste. This will help blend the pistachios and white chocolate more efficiently.
2. Be patient and blend in intervals to avoid overheating your blender.
3. If the mixture seems too thick or isn’t blending smoothly, you can add a small amount of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil) to help achieve a smoother consistency.
4. Make sure to break the vermicelli or kunafa dough into even pieces to ensure uniform roasting.
5. Opt for bread that can hold up well to grilling, such as sourdough or a sturdy white bread. Avoid overly soft or airy bread types.
6. If you need to store the sandwiches, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in foil and refrigerate. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to regain some of the crispiness before serving.

VIRAL PISTACHIO KUNAFA SANDWICH

 

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Ingredients

• ½ cup pistachio kernels
• ⅓ cup white chocolate (60g), chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup vermicelli or kunafa dough
• 4 slices of bread
• Butter, as required

Instructions

1. Add pistachios and white chocolate in a blender and blend until the mixture turns into a smooth thick paste. Scrape down the mixture after every 1-2 minutes to help the pistachios blend faster and smoother until it all comes together. This will take around 5-7 mins.
2. Now in a pan set over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter and add in the broken vermicelli or kunafa dough to it. Roast it until the vermicelli turns brown, crunchy and fragrant.
3. Take the pan off the heat and add the pistachio paste to it. Mix well until nicely combined.
4. Divide this filling into two parts and sandwich each part between two slices of bread. Spread a generous amount of butter on both sides of the sandwich and cook on a hot pan until it’s golden brown and crispy on both sides.

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If you like my Viral Pistachio Kunafa Sandwich recipe and happen to make them in your kitchen, do tag me on Instagram and share pictures with me using #Bakewithshivesh. Happy Baking!