What Is Luqaimat?
Also known as Awama, Lukaimat, Zalabia, Lokma, or Lukum. These golden dumplings are similar to donut holes, but instead of rolling in sugar or icing, these are dipped in a cold simple syrup and enjoyed immediately while still crunchy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Luqaimat also exists in other cultures where the dessert is slightly different, but the concept is the same. In Greece, there are Loukoumades, and in India, you will find a similar dessert (with a slightly different texture) called Gulab Jamun. The word “Luqaimat” in Arabic translates into “little bites”, these sweet bites are especially popular during the month of Ramadan but can be found in dessert shops all year round. In Jordan, this dessert is called Awameh and is often enjoyed with a cup of Turkish coffee. The good news is that these are quite easy to make, the dough does not require kneading, and the result is phenomenal!
Key Ingredients
To make Awameh or Luqaimat, you will need the following ingredients:
Flour and Cornstarch: The dough is very light and fluffy, so we’re using a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch here.Yeast: You will need one packet of instant yeast to be added to the flour mixture.Oil: For deep frying, go for a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point. I use sunflower or vegetable oil. You can also use canola oil.For the Simple Syrup: Equal amounts of sugar and water, and to flavor the syrup you can use a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and rose water (optional).
How to Make Simple Syrup (Atir)?
How to Make Luqaimat (Awameh)?
Storing Tips
Luqaimat balls are best enjoyed immediately! I do not recommend making them ahead on purpose. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge but keep in mind that the texture will change and they will lose their crunch. Leftover sugar syrup can be stored in a container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, and can be repurposed and used for many Middle Eastern desserts.
Recipe Tips
The dough will be soft and loose, you might be tempted to add more flour to it but don’t! If you add too much flour, the doughnut holes will be too cakey and won’t have the desired fluffy texture to them.Make sure that the doughnuts are hot, and the sugar syrup is cold! This combination of hot and cold is used to make many Middle Eastern desserts and ensures that you get the right texture.
© Little Sunny Kitchen
