Zlabia (Middle Eastern Mini Funnel Cakes) Recipe

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Zlabia, also known as Jalebi in some regions, is a crispy, deep-fried Middle Eastern dessert soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. It has a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft, syrupy inside. These golden swirls are perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in a sweet treat!

Ingredients

For the Batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp semolina (optional, for extra crispiness)
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
  • ½ tsp orange blossom water or rose water (optional)
  • 1 pinch salt
  • ½ tsp turmeric or a few drops of orange food coloring (optional)

For the Syrup:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

For Frying:

  • 2 cups vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

  1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  2. Add lemon juice and let it boil for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in rose water or orange blossom water, then remove from heat. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  1. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, semolina, baking powder, yeast, sugar, salt, and turmeric (or food coloring).
  2. Gradually add warm water, whisking until you get a smooth, slightly thick batter (similar to pancake batter).
  3. Cover and let it rest for 30-40 minutes until slightly bubbly.

Step 3: Fry the Zlabia

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
  2. Pour the batter into a piping bag or a squeeze bottle with a small tip.
  3. Pipe spiral shapes directly into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.

Step 4: Dip in Syrup & Serve

  1. While still hot, dip the fried Zlabia into the cooled syrup for a few seconds.
  2. Remove and let the excess syrup drip off.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Zlabia

✔ For crispier Zlabia: Make sure the oil is hot before frying.
✔ For extra sweetness: Let the Zlabia soak in syrup for a few more seconds.
✔ For a twist: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Zlabia—a crispy, syrupy delight! 🍯✨

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