Kataifi

Dessert

Item Rating: 45/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 429 calories, 5.0 grams of protein, 23.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		1021.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		54.8 g	70%
	Saturated Fat	23.8 g	119%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.6 mg	15%
Sodium		357.1 mg	15%
Total Carbohydrates		119.0 g	43%
	Dietary Fiber	4.8 g	17%
	Sugars	47.6 g
protein		11.9 g	23%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		119.0 mg	9%
Iron		3.6 mg	20%
Potassium		238.1 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

Fat: 493 cal (48.5%)

Protein: 47 cal (4.7%)

Carbs: 476 cal (46.8%)

About Kataifi

Kataifi is a traditional pastry originating from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, particularly popular in Greece and Turkey. Known for its shredded, thread-like phyllo dough, it is used to create intricate desserts often filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. Nutritionally, kataifi is calorie-dense due to its carbohydrate and fat content, primarily from the phyllo dough and fillings like walnuts or pistachios. One serving (approximately 100g) contains about 429 calories, 23 grams of fat, 50 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, and modest amounts of calcium (50 mg) and iron (1.5 mg), with minimal protein and vitamins. Its sweet flavor and delicate texture make it a festive treat commonly enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.

Health Benefits

• Rich in healthy fats, particularly if filled with nuts like walnuts or pistachios, which provide omega-3 fatty acids known for heart health.
• Contains 1.5 mg of iron, a mineral essential for oxygen transport and reducing fatigue.
• Provides 50 mg of calcium per serving, beneficial for bone health and muscle function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, tree nuts, butter (if used)

Suitable for: Vegetarian

Not suitable for: Gluten-free, vegan (unless prepared with dairy-free alternatives), nut-free diets

Selection and Storage

Store kataifi pastry in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.

Common Questions About Kataifi Nutrition

Is kataifi high in protein?

Kataifi is not particularly high in protein, offering around 5 grams of protein per 100-gram serving. This makes it more of a carbohydrate-heavy and fat-rich dessert than a protein source.

Can I eat kataifi on a keto diet?

Kataifi is not suitable for a keto diet, as it contains 50 grams of carbohydrates per 100-gram serving. Its high carb content makes it incompatible with the low-carb requirements of ketogenic diets.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating kataifi?

Kataifi is a sweet and energy-dense dessert, providing 429 calories per 100-gram serving, along with 20 grams of sugar and 23 grams of fat. While it can be a delicious treat, its high sugar and fat content may contribute to weight gain and elevated blood sugar if consumed excessively. Moderation is key when enjoying kataifi.

What is the recommended portion size for kataifi?

A recommended portion size for kataifi would be around 50-70 grams, depending on your caloric needs. This smaller serving will provide approximately 215-300 calories, making it easier to enjoy as an occasional treat without overindulging.

How does kataifi compare to baklava?

Kataifi and baklava are similar in that they are both sweet, nut-filled desserts commonly found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. However, kataifi uses finely shredded phyllo dough rather than the layered phyllo sheets found in baklava, resulting in a different texture. Nutritionally, both are high in calories, fat, and sugar, so portion control is important regardless of which dessert you choose.

Data Sources & Scientific References