Zlabia
Libyan Sweet Fritters
Zlabia are delightful, crispy, deep-fried fritters made from a fermented batter, often enjoyed during festive occasions. They are typically drizzled with syrup or dusted with powdered sugar, offering a sweet and satisfying treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Cornstarch
- 1.5 tbsp Active dry yeast
- 3 tbsp Sugar(plus more for syrup if desired)
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Lukewarm water(plus more if needed)
- 1 cup Vegetable oil(for frying, plus more as needed)
- 1 tsp Rosewater(optional, for syrup)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice(for syrup)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Make the batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing until a smooth, thick batter forms. It should have a consistency similar to pancake batter.
- 2
Rest the batter: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- 3
Prepare the syrup (optional): While the batter rests, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan with lemon juice and rosewater. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly syrupy. Let it cool completely.
- 4
Fry the zlabia: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the batter to a squeeze bottle or a piping bag with a small round tip. Carefully squeeze the batter into the hot oil in a circular or spiral pattern to form fritters about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- 5
Cook until golden: Fry the zlabia for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- 6
Serve: Drizzle the warm zlabia with the cooled syrup, or dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying; too cool and the fritters will be greasy, too hot and they will burn before cooking through.
- ✓For a more authentic flavor, some recipes include a pinch of cardamom or anise seeds in the batter.
- ✓Zlabia are best enjoyed fresh, as they lose their crispness over time.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some versions are served with a tahini-honey dip.
- For a simpler finish, dust with powdered sugar instead of using syrup.