Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Large pot for frying
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
3. Add the honey, orange juice, and orange zest to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
7. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the loukoumades from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Repeat the process until all the batter is used up.
10. Drizzle the loukoumades with honey and serve warm.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 loukoumades
Nutritional information:
Calories: 70
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 50mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey for a vegan version.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Top the loukoumades with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm and cozy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying the loukoumades to ensure they cook evenly and don't absorb too much oil.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to make uniform-sized loukoumades.
- Serve the loukoumades immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover loukoumades in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the loukoumades, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the loukoumades on a platter drizzled with honey and sprinkled with chopped nuts.
Garnishes:
Chopped nuts, whipped cream, or ice cream.
Pairings:
Serve the loukoumades with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
These loukoumades can be served as a dessert on their own or with a side of fresh fruit.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the batter is too thick, add a little more warm water until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- If the loukoumades are too greasy, make sure the oil is at the right temperature and that you're not overcrowding the pot.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature and to avoid any accidents.
Food history:
Loukoumades are a traditional Greek dessert that dates back to ancient times. They were often served at festivals and celebrations.
Flavor profiles:
These loukoumades have a sweet and citrusy flavor from the honey and orange juice.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these loukoumades as a sweet treat after a meal or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Region: Greek