Entree: United Arab Emirates – Northern Culinary Region – لقيمات ➤ Luqaimat (Sweet deep-fried dumplings soaked in sugar and date syrup)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 30 min

Additional 1 hr

Total 1 hr 45 min

Ingredients

- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (3 g) active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp (3 g) fine salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) ground cardamom
- Pinch (0.1 g) saffron threads, optional
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water (about 105–110°F / 40–43°C)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter
- 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable oil for deep frying, plus more as needed
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar for syrup
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water for syrup
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice for syrup
- 1 tsp (5 ml) rose water or orange blossom water, optional
- 1/2 cup (160 g) date syrup (dibs), optional for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. If using saffron, crush a few threads into the warm water. Whisk warm water, yogurt, and melted butter, then pour into dry ingredients and mix until a smooth, thick batter forms.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let batter rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, until bubbly and slightly doubled.
3. Meanwhile make the syrup: combine 1 cup (200 g) sugar and 1/2 cup (120 ml) water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stir until sugar dissolves, add lemon juice and simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in rose water if using; keep warm.
4. Heat 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
5. When oil is ready and batter has risen, use two spoons (or a small cookie scoop) to drop tablespoons of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain fried dumplings on paper towels briefly, then immediately transfer to the warm syrup and toss gently to coat, or drizzle date syrup over them if using. Serve warm.