Luqaimat | Arabian Sweet Dumplings

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Rafia Junaid (@chef_rafia)

Luqaimat is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made of deep-fried dough balls soaked in a sweet syrup.

Luqaimat | Arabian Sweet Dumplings  recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
18min
Total Time
33min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = portion)

For the Dough

  • water
    water
    1 1/2cups
  • yeast
    yeast
    1tbsp
  • sugar
    sugar
    1tbsp
  • all-purpose flour
    all-purpose flour
    2cups
  • cornstarch
    cornstarch
    2tbsp
  • milk powder
    milk powder
    2tbsp
  • salt
    salt
    pinch
  • vanilla
    vanilla
    1tbsp
  • vegetable oil
    vegetable oil
    2tbsp

For the Syrup

  • sugar
    sugar
    2cups
  • water
    water
    2cups
  • cardamom
    cardamom
    dash
  • citric acid
    citric acid
    1g
  • honey
    honey
    1/4cup

How to make Luqaimat | Arabian Sweet Dumplings

Preparing the Dough

  1. Step 1

    In a mixing bowl, add water, yeast, and sugar. Mix well and let the yeast activate for 5 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add all-purpose flour, cornstarch, milk powder, salt, and vanilla to the mixing bowl. Mix well until the dough forms.

  3. Step 3

    Add vegetable oil to the mixing bowl and knead the dough for 10 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Let the dough ferment for 1 hour.

Preparing the Syrup

  1. Step 1

    In a small pot over medium heat, add sugar, water, and cardamom. Let it simmer for 12 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add citric acid or lemon juice and honey to the pot. Stir well and remove from heat. Let it cool down.

Frying the Luqaimat

  1. Step 1

    After 1 hour, remove the air from the dough and shape it into small balls.

  2. Step 2

    Heat vegetable oil over medium heat in a deep pot.

  3. Step 3

    Using a pancake dispenser, frosting gun, or frosting bag, pour the dough balls straight into the hot oil. Roll them so that they cook evenly from all sides.

  4. Step 4

    Fry the luqaimat for about six minutes until they turn golden brown.

  5. Step 5

    Soak the fried luqaimat in the syrup immediately.

    Step 3.1: Soak the fried luqaimat in the syrup immediately

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

395.3kcal (19.77%)

Protein

9.3g (18.66%)

Carbs

81.0g (29.45%)

Sugars

47.3g (94.66%)

Healthy Fat

8.0g

Unhealthy Fat

1.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy texture.

  2. You can add saffron to the syrup for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to store leftover luqaimat?

    To store leftover luqaimat, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to reheat them in the oven before serving.

  2. Can I make luqaimat gluten-free?

    Yes, you can make gluten-free luqaimat by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients, like cornstarch and milk powder, are also gluten-free to maintain dietary compatibility.

  3. What can I use instead of honey in the luqaimat syrup?

    If you prefer not to use honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it will still complement the luqaimat well.

  4. What are some good pairings for luqaimat?

    Luqaimat pairs wonderfully with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. You can also serve them with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor and texture.

  5. How do I ensure my luqaimat are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside?

    To achieve crispy luqaimat, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Fry them in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Additionally, soaking them in syrup immediately after frying helps maintain their softness while keeping the exterior crispy.

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Rafia Junaid

(@chef_rafia)

Creating & sharing recipes is my passion . Let me inspire your next culinary adventure! 📍UAE, Dubai...

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