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With every delectable bite into a hot, sweet kanafa cup, you’re not just savoring a popular dessert from the Arab world – you’re experiencing a slice of Palestinian culture. Shadin Hamdan, a 25-year-old Palestinian-American baker, transformed her hobby into a thriving business named Kanafa Cups, offering an array of these iconic treats. Her journey began as a way to share the delight of her heritage during Ramadan amidst the pandemic, but it quickly grew beyond her expectations, connecting communities and bridging cultures.Kanafa, hailed as the pinnacle of Palestinian desserts, originates from Nablus. It features delicate strands of angel-hair dough embracing a sweet cheese filling, typically mozzarella. This delectable creation is baked until golden and crispy, before being drenched in a fragrant orange-blossom syrup and adorned with crushed pistachios. Kanafa captures the essence of Hamdan’s childhood memories, as she fondly recalls gatherings at her grandmother’s house, where the enticing aroma of kanafa would envelop the room. The experience instilled a deep love for this delicacy, eventually inspiring her to perfect her grandmother’s recipe with a unique twist.Hamdan’s venture into the world of kanafa unfolded organically. What started as a Ramadan gesture for friends and family turned into a social media sensation. The overwhelming community support pushed her to expand, and her pop-ups in New York City drew long lines of eager patrons, transcending the Arab and Muslim communities. With queues stretching around the block, she would consistently sell out of the 1,300 cups she prepared each night.Beyond its delectable nature, Kanafa Cups has become a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. Hamdan acknowledges the unifying power of food, which allows people from diverse backgrounds to connect. Her Italian best friend’s introduction to kanafa and its subsequent embrace by her family exemplifies this. Hamdan’s business inadvertently facilitated the sharing of cultural experiences, fostering acceptance and inclusivity.Being a Palestinian entrepreneur in New York comes with its challenges. However, Hamdan remains committed to breaking down barriers and amplifying the Palestinian voice. Embracing her identity openly, she aims to address the lack of representation and awareness surrounding Palestine. She emphasizes the importance of creating conversations and dispelling misconceptions about her culture.The impact of Hamdan’s work extends beyond her community. Palestinian-American supermodel Bella Hadid, a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights, became a patron of Kanafa Cups. Receiving a custom-made kanafa cake as a gift marked a significant milestone for Hamdan. Hadid’s recognition brought immense joy, reflecting the power of influential figures standing in solidarity with the Palestinian cause.Traveling to Palestine with her family, who are refugees, was a profoundly moving experience for Hamdan. Visiting her parents’ hometown of Beit Hanina allowed her to connect with her roots and witness the realities of her heritage. The journey evoked a deep sense of belonging and affirmed her connection to Palestine.Kanafa Cups has evolved into a familial endeavor, reflecting the strong bond between Hamdan and her loved ones. Her father supplies the ingredients from his supermarket, while her mother, sister, and cousins contribute to fulfilling orders. The business has become a testament to collective effort and shared achievements. Despite moments of discouragement, Hamdan’s family support motivates her to persevere.As her business continues to flourish, Hamdan’s vision expands. She now ships kanafa cups across the United States and receives special orders from social media influencers. With aspirations of opening her own café, she remains grounded in her commitment to her heritage and community.
