Middle Eastern Chocolate Treat (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pistachio Kunefe Filling

01 - 1 cup kataifi (shredded kunefe pastry), finely chopped
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - ½ cup ground pistachios
04 - ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (or heavy cream)
05 - 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
06 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Chocolate Shell

07 - 1 ½ cups dark or milk chocolate, melted
08 - ½ teaspoon coconut oil (for a glossy finish, optional)

→ Garnish

09 - Crushed pistachios

# Instructions:

01 - In a pan over medium heat, toast the chopped kataifi with melted butter until golden and crispy (about 5 minutes).
02 - In a bowl, combine the toasted kataifi, ground pistachios, sweetened condensed milk (or heavy cream), rose water (if using), and salt. Mix well until it forms a slightly sticky dough.
03 - Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up the mixture.
04 - Grease your hands slightly and scoop out 1-inch portions of the kunefe filling. Roll each portion into smooth balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 15 minutes to make coating easier.
05 - Melt the dark or milk chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in 15-second bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
06 - Using a fork, dip each pistachio kunefe ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coat. Place each coated ball on a tray and sprinkle with crushed pistachios before the chocolate sets.
07 - Refrigerate the chocolate balls for 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Serve and enjoy this crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey masterpiece!

# Notes:

01 - Can substitute rose water with orange blossom water
02 - Dark chocolate works beautifully for a richer flavor
03 - Makes a great gift or party treat