About the dish:
Loukoumades are small, crispy Greek doughnuts that are typically drizzled with honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and chopped nuts. They are a popular dessert in Greek cuisine, loved for their fluffy texture and sweet flavors. Loukoumades are best enjoyed fresh and warm, as they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The combination of the sweet honey syrup, aromatic cinnamon, and optional nuts adds a delightful flavor and texture to these delectable treats. Loukoumades are a popular dessert during festive occasions, and they are also enjoyed as a sweet indulgence any time of the year. They make a wonderful addition to a dessert table or can be served as a standalone treat. Here's a recipe for Loukoumades:
Recipe:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and granulated sugar. Gradually add the lukewarm water while stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick but still pourable. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is resting, prepare the honey syrup. In a saucepan, combine the honey, water, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, carefully drop small portions of the dough into the hot oil, shaping them into small balls. Fry the loukoumades in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked loukoumades to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Once all the loukoumades are fried, arrange them on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the prepared honey syrup. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and chopped nuts on top, if desired.
- Serve the loukoumades while they are still warm and enjoy!
