Luqaimat

United Arab Emirates

Also known as Lugaimat, Luqmat al-Qadi

About Luqaimat

Luqaimat are small, crisp dumplings from the Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, made from a yeast batter that is deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup. The name means "small bites".

The batter is flavored with saffron and cardamom, then dropped by the spoonful into hot oil, where it puffs up into golden balls that are crunchy outside and soft inside. They are coated in date syrup (dibs) or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Luqaimat are a favorite during Ramadan, eaten after breaking the fast, and are also served at Eid and family gatherings. They are similar to other fried dough treats across the Middle East, such as luqmat al-qadi.

Ingredients

• flour
• yeast
• saffron
• cardamom
• date syrup
• sesame seeds