PEYNIRLI KUNEFE (Sweet Shredded Pastry With Cheese)

Ingredients (12 servings)
Sugar 2 1/4 cups 450 g
Water 1 1/2 cups 350 g
Lemon 2 teaspoons 10 g
Kadayif (shredded pastry) 500 g
Butter or margarine 1 cup 200 g
White cheese (un-salted) 1 2/3 cups 375 g

Directions
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved.

Boil gently for 5 minutes. Add lemon juice; stir. Boil for 1 minute. Set aside. Combine kadaylf shreds and melted butter in a pan.

Break kadaylf shreds in butter blending well with tips of fingers. Divide into half.

Spread one half in a slightly greased baking pan 25x25 cm (9x9 inch). Press with fingers slightly.

Spread cheese over kadaylf shreds. Repeat the same with the remaining half, pressing firmly this time.

Bake in a moderate oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from oven. Let stand for 2 minutes.

Pour warm syrup over. Cover and let stand until syrup is absorbed.

Cut into 5-6 cm (2-2 1/2 inch) pieces.

Arrange on a serving plate. Serve warm.

Tips: This form of kadayif is usually served warm following a full meal. Cottage, Ricotta or cream cheese can be substituted for cheese.