Vegan Loukoumades

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

Stap voor stap

1. 1

   Prepare the syrup by combining the sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

   Ongeveer 10 min

   Tip van de kok: Cooling the syrup completely before use prevents the loukoumades from becoming soggy.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and a small amount of granulated sugar for the dough. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

   Ongeveer 5 min

   Tip van de kok: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.

3. 3

   Add the flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or your hand until a sticky, smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.

   Ongeveer 3 min

4. 4

   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

   Ongeveer 1 uur

   Tip van de kok: A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good spot for rising dough.

5. 5

   Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 175°C (350°F).

   Ongeveer 5 min

   Tip van de kok: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.

6. 6

   Dip a spoon or an ice cream scoop in oil, then scoop small portions of the dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

   Ongeveer 15 min

   Tip van de kok: Keep a bowl of water nearby to dip your hands or spoon in if the dough becomes too sticky.

7. 7

   Remove the fried loukoumades with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

8. 8

   Immediately transfer the warm loukoumades to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the cooled syrup, then sprinkle with ground cinnamon and chopped walnuts, if using.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: The warm loukoumades absorb the syrup best.

9. 9

   Serve immediately and enjoy.