Loukoumades
also known as Greek honey donuts or Greek donut holes, are a popular dessert in Greek cuisine and various other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries. These sweet and airy doughnut-like pastries are small, round, and typically drenched in honey syrup. Loukoumades are a favorite treat during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Loukoumades:
- - 1 cup lukewarm water
- - 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
For the Honey Syrup:
- - 1 cup honey
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup water
- - 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- - Zest of one lemon (optional)
- - Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pistachios) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Loukoumades:
1. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
4. Stir the ingredients together until you have a sticky dough. It should come together easily but be quite sticky.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Making the Honey Syrup:
6. In a saucepan, combine the honey, granulated sugar, water, and optional cinnamon stick and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it forms a slightly thick syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Frying the Loukoumades:
7. In a deep saucepan or deep fryer, heat enough olive oil to a temperature of about 350°F (175°C).
8. Using two tablespoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. They will puff up and turn golden brown in about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to turn them for even cooking.
9. Once they are golden brown, remove the loukoumades from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serving and Assembling:
10. While the loukoumades are still warm, drizzle the honey syrup generously over them. You can also sprinkle them with chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, for added texture and flavor.
11. Serve your loukoumades immediately while they are still warm and dripping with syrup. Enjoy!
Loukoumades are a delightful and sweet indulgence, perfect for sharing with friends and family on special occasions or as a delightful treat any time. The combination of the airy, fried dough and the sweet, aromatic honey syrup is a true culinary delight.
