Zalabya

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sugar for syrup
• 1/2 cup water for syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon rose water
• 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water
• 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for serving
• 1 tablespoon honey optional for drizzling

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt and mix well.
2. Gradually add 3/4 cup warm water to the flour mixture and whisk until a smooth, lump-free batter forms with a consistency similar to pancake batter.
3. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the batter rest in a warm place for 30 minutes until it becomes slightly bubbly and active.
4. While the batter rests, prepare the sugar syrup by combining 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
5. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to the syrup and bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly to a light consistency.
6. Remove the syrup from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon rose water and 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water, then set aside to cool.
7. Heat 3 cups vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
8. Using a small spoon or a squeeze bottle, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil, frying in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
9. Fry the zalabya for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning them gently with a slotted spoon, until they are golden brown and puffed all around.
10. Remove the fried zalabya with a slotted spoon and immediately dip them into the cooled sugar syrup for 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring they are well coated.
11. Transfer the syrup-soaked zalabya to a serving plate and dust generously with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey if desired.
12. Serve warm immediately for the best crispy texture and enjoy as a dessert or festive snack.