Lebanese doughnuts with yogurt
Lebanese Yogurt Donuts: A Crispy and Fluffy Delight
Donuts are a sweet snack that has won the hearts of many over time, adored not only by children but also by adults. These Lebanese yogurt donuts are a simple yet extremely tasty version that will take you on a culinary journey full of flavor. With a soft and fluffy dough, soaked in a fragrant syrup, each bite will be an explosion of taste. Let’s discover together how to prepare them!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the donut dough:
- 500 g wheat flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 475 g yogurt (preferably Greek, for a creamier consistency)
- A pinch of salt
- Oil for frying (make sure it is of good quality to avoid unpleasant taste)
For the syrup:
- 75 g granulated sugar (you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (lemon juice can be used as an alternative)
- 3 tablespoons water
- Grated zest of one lime (for an extra flavor)
Preparation
1. Preparing the dough: Start by sifting the flour, salt, and baking soda into a large bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the dough. Gradually add the yogurt and mix well with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a smooth dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
2. Letting the dough rest: Once you have an elastic dough, cover it with a damp towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period will help the gluten in the flour relax, making the donuts fluffier.
3. Preparing the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, lime juice, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it reaches a boiling point, let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and add the grated lime zest. This syrup will give the donuts a fresh and aromatic taste.
4. Frying the donuts: In a deep frying pan, heat the oil to about 180°C. Use a teaspoon to take small portions of dough and shape them into donuts. Carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden and rise to the surface. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain a constant oil temperature.
5. Draining and soaking in syrup: Once the donuts are fried, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Then, quickly dip them in the warm syrup, ensuring they are well coated. This step will give them a sweet taste and a moist texture.
6. Serving the donuts: The yogurt donuts are served warm, four per plate. A delicious idea is to accompany them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a perfect contrast between hot and cold. You can also sprinkle ground nuts or cocoa powder on top for an elegant look and extra flavor.
Practical Tips
- Ingredients: Opt for Greek yogurt, which will provide a creamier and richer texture. If you want to reduce calories, you can use low-fat yogurt.
- Frying oil: It is essential to use oil with a high smoke point (such as sunflower oil) to prevent burning.
- Baked version: If you want a healthier option, you can bake the donuts in the oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes or until golden. Brush them with a little oil before putting them in the oven to make them crispier.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of yogurt?
Yes, you can experiment with coconut yogurt for a vegan option, but the texture may be different.
2. How can I store the donuts?
The donuts can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature. However, it is best to consume them fresh.
3. Can I make filled donuts?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate, jam, or sweet cheese in the center of the dough before frying it.
Lebanese yogurt donuts are an excellent choice for a sweet snack, a party, or a weekend dessert. Enjoy them with loved ones and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe!
Ingredients: For the doughnut dough: 500g flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 475g yogurt, for frying. For the syrup: 75g granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 3 tablespoons water, grated zest of a green lemon.
