Loukoumades Algériens
Sweet, golden-brown fried dough balls, often drizzled with honey or syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds. These are a popular treat, especially during celebrations.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 7 g Active dry yeast(1 sachet)
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 250 ml Warm water
- 500 ml Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 200 ml Honey(for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp Sesame seeds(toasted, for garnish)
- 1 tsp Orange blossom water(optional, for syrup)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- 2
Gradually add the warm water while whisking to form a smooth, thick batter. It should be pourable but not too thin. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until the batter has doubled in volume.
- 3
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches about 180°C (350°F). Test by dropping a tiny bit of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
- 4
Once the batter has risen, use two spoons to scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- 5
Fry the loukoumades for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- 6
While the loukoumades are still warm, drizzle generously with honey. If using, stir orange blossom water into the honey for an extra floral note.
- 7
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Too cool, and they will absorb too much oil; too hot, and they will burn before cooking through.
- ✓Using two spoons helps create uniform, round shapes.
- ✓For a crispier texture, fry them in two batches: first fry until lightly golden, remove, let them cool slightly, then fry again until deep golden brown.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar instead of honey.
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the batter for a spiced version.