Loukoumades (also known as loukoumades) are a traditional Greek dessert that are similar to doughnuts, but smaller and lighter. They are essentially deep-fried balls of dough that are soaked in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and chopped walnuts. Here’s a recipe you can try at home:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the honey syrup:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
For serving:
- Ground cinnamon
- Chopped walnuts
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the bowl and stir to combine.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
- To make the honey syrup, combine the honey, water, and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey has dissolved and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for 5-10 minutes until it has thickened slightly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough and carefully drop it into the hot oil.
- Fry the dough balls for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, flipping them over halfway through cooking.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the dough balls from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- While the loukoumades are still warm, drizzle them generously with the honey syrup.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon and chopped walnuts over the loukoumades before serving.
Loukoumades are best served warm and freshly fried, but they can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. They make a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a festive gathering.
