Luqaimat Recipe – UAE's Sweet Delight

Name: Luqaimat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: United-Arab-Emirates
Ingredients: cardamom; date syrup; for frying; for the dough; for the syrup; g all purpose flour; granulated sugar; honey; instant yeast; rose water; saffron; salt; sesame seeds; vegetable oil; warm water

Luqaimat are delicious, golden-brown dumplings that are a cherished dessert in the United Arab Emirates. Often enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan, these sweet treats symbolize hospitality and celebration in Emirati culture. Typically drizzled with date syrup or honey, Luqaimat are a must-try for anyone wanting to experience authentic UAE flavors.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Dough:
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground saffron
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 1/4 cups (300 ml) warm water
For the Syrup:
1 cup (240 ml) date syrup or honey
1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
1 tablespoon ground sesame seeds (optional)
For Frying:
Vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, ground cardamom, ground saffron, and instant yeast.

Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a smooth, thick batter forms. It should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.

Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Syrup

In a small saucepan, warm the date syrup or honey over low heat. If using, stir in the rose water and ground sesame seeds.

Keep the syrup warm until ready to use.

Fry the Luqaimat

In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Using a spoon or your hands, drop small spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry the dumplings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Fry the luqaimat for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried dumplings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Coat with Syrup

While the luqaimat are still warm, drizzle them generously with the warm date syrup or honey.

Toss the dumplings gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup.

Serve

Serve the luqaimat warm, with extra syrup on the side for dipping if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Luqaimat?

Luqaimat are deep-fried dumplings made from a sweet, spiced batter, often served with syrup. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Where does Luqaimat come from?

Luqaimat originated in the United Arab Emirates and are a popular dessert throughout the Gulf region.

What are the main ingredients in Luqaimat?

Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, ground cardamom, ground saffron, instant yeast, and warm water.

How long does Luqaimat take to make?

Luqaimat take approximately 90-120 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Luqaimat?

Luqaimat are often served with date syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and can be accompanied by a cup of Arabic coffee.

Luqaimat