Luqaimat (Arabic sweet dumplings)

Luqaimat (Arabic sweet dumplings)

Step 1 : Sugar syrup : This can be prepared in advance.

• Sugar – 3 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Crushed cardamom – 5 nos
• Saffron – 1 pinch

Preparation

Add all of the above and bring to boil over low flame, till it thickens and comes to a thick pouring consistency. After cooling down, drain it and store for further use.

Step 2 : For dumpling batter

• All purpose flour (maida) – 3 cups
• Corn flour – 3 tbsp
• Sugar – 3 tbsp
• Salt – 1/2 tbsp
• Yogurt – 3 tbsp
• Water- as needed
• Fermenting solution :
  • Active yeast – 1 1/2 tsp
  • Sugar –  1 tsp
  • Mix the above in lukewarm water (3 tbsp) and keep for fermenting for about 5 minutes

Preparation

Mix all the ingredients including the fermenting solution and make a thick batter by adding water. Beat using hands as shown in the video to make it smooth and ensure that no lumps are there. Cover it with a wet cloth and leave for 3 to 4 hours for fermenting. You will be surprised to see that its quantity will become double by then – so ensure that the bowl you are using can take it all.

Step 3 : For frying

• Cooking oil – enough for frying

Preparation

In a pan, heat the oil and once its hot, add the batter in very small quantities by hand – as shown in the video. Deep fry till dark brown and crispy.

While serving, pour the sugar syrup on the fried luqaimat.  You can use date syrup or honey instead of sugar syrup.

Refer detailed step by step cooking video: