Loukoumades (Zvingoi)

Ingredients

• •2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• •1 cup warm water
• •2 cups all-purpose flour
• •1 tbsp sugar
• •1/2 tsp kosher salt
• •Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• •1/2 cup honey
• •2 tbsp water, for syrup
• •1 tsp orange blossom water or rosewater, optional
• •1 tbsp sesame seeds or cinnamon, optional

Instructions

1. 1

   In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it stand until foamy, about 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the flour, sugar, and salt and stir into a sticky batter.

3. 3

   Cover the bowl and let the batter rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

4. 4

   Heat several inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F.

5. 5

   Using two spoons or wet hands, drop small portions of batter into the hot oil.

6. 6

   Fry in batches until the dough balls are puffed and golden brown on all sides.

7. 7

   Drain on paper towels while you prepare the syrup.

8. 8

   Warm the honey with 2 tablespoons of water and the floral water if using, then drizzle over the loukoumades and finish with sesame seeds or cinnamon.