Authentic Middle Eastern Awwama Recipe: Taste the Sweetness of Tradition

Ingredients

  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Instant Yeast
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Warm Water
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil (for deep frying)
  • 1 cup Sugar (for syrup)
  • 1/2 cup Water (for syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice (for syrup)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well until you get a smooth batter. Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for about two hours.
  3. While the dough is resting, prepare the syrup. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the lemon juice, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the syrup thickens. Set aside to cool.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
  5. Wet your hands with a little bit of water and take a small amount of batter. Shape it into a small ball and drop it into the hot oil. Repeat the process until all the batter is used up.
  6. Fry the balls until they turn golden brown, turning them continuously to ensure they cook evenly.
  7. Once the balls are cooked, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and immediately dip them into the syrup. Make sure they're fully coated.
  8. Let the balls soak in the syrup for a few minutes before removing them. Serve warm and enjoy your Awwama!

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix the batter and other ingredients.
  • Deep Frying Pan - A pan with high sides for deep frying the Awwama.
  • Slotted Spoon - A spoon with slots or holes to remove the fried Awwama from the oil.
  • Saucepan - A small pan to prepare the syrup.

Recipe variations

  • Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
  • Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a spiced flavor.
  • Instead of deep frying, try baking the awwama in the oven for a lower-fat option.
  • Add a handful of chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds to the batter for added crunch.
  • For a chocolatey twist, mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the awwama for extra indulgence.
  • Add a teaspoon of rose water or orange blossom water to the syrup for a floral aroma.
  • Make a savory version by omitting the sugar and adding spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder to the batter. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce.

Recipe overview

Awwama, also known as Luqaimat, are delightful little sweet treats that are popular in many Middle Eastern countries. Made from a simple yeast dough, these bite-sized balls are deep-fried to golden perfection and then drenched in a sweet, sticky syrup. They're wonderfully crispy on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside. This recipe will take you through the process of making your own Awwama at home, which is quite straightforward, but does require a bit of patience - especially when waiting for the dough to rise! The recipe also includes making your own sugar syrup, which adds a delicious sweetness to these amazing little treats. Whether you're preparing them for a special occasion, or simply as a dessert for a family meal, you can be sure that these Awwama will be enjoyed by everyone.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. However, note that it may slightly alter the texture and taste of the Awwama.
  2. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the batter.
  3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the syrup to your preference. However, keep in mind that it may affect the sweetness of the Awwama.
  4. Can I use a different type of oil for deep frying? Yes, you can use other types of vegetable oil or even canola oil for deep frying the Awwama.
  5. Can I make the batter ahead of time? It is not recommended to make the batter ahead of time as it needs to rest and rise for about two hours. It is best to prepare the batter just before frying.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Saucepan - Used to make the syrup for coating the Awwama.
  • Deep Frying Pan - A pan with high sides for deep frying the Awwama.
  • Slotted Spoon - A utensil with slots or holes to lift and drain the fried Awwama from the oil.

Origin stories

Awwama is a sweet treat that hails from the Levantine region, enjoyed mostly in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine. It is often associated with the warmth and camaraderie of family gatherings, where making Awwama becomes a collective effort. It's not just the end result that's enjoyed, but the process itself is a bonding activity that brings families closer. The treat is often served during religious celebrations such as Ramadan and Eid, however, its simplicity and delicious taste have made it a popular dessert that's enjoyed all year round. If you find yourself in any of these countries, be sure to try this delightful treat that encapsulates the sweetness of shared stories, laughter, and the love that is woven into the rich tapestry of Levantine culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.