Zalabia - vegan doughnuts

Prep time: 20 mins     Cook time: 25 mins     Other: 1.5 hrs
Serves: 4-6 

Zalabia is a vegan version of a doughnut. This Yemenite fritter is also an easier version of a doughnut. Crisp outside and fluffy inside, zalabia is a perfect treat. Every fritter has a different cloud-like shape which adds the fun at the table. You can serve it with vanilla or cinnamon sugar, jam or soaked in syrup. Perfect for Chanukkah table!

For the batter ingredients:
540 g plain flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp caster sugar
7 g fast action yeast
juice of half a lemon
375 g lukewarm water

For the sugar syrup (optional):
350 g caster sugar
190 ml water
juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tsp rose or orange water

1. For the fritters: combine the dry ingredients. Gradually add water and lemon juice and mix vigorously until the batter is smooth and elastic. Cover and leave in a warm place for about 1 hr.
2. While the batter is resting you can prepare the syrup (if serving): heat water and sugar until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil. Cook down until the syrup is thick enough to cover the back of a spoon. Add lemon and orange or rose water and cook for another minute. Cool.
3. Uncover the batter, beat it with a wooden spoon to deflate. Cover again and allow to rest for about half an hour. 
4. Heat up oil (about 2 inches) in a heavy-bottomed saucepan till it reaches 190*C. Using 2 spoons, dip one in oil and scoop a spoonful of batter and drop it in for oil. Fry 3 to 4 fritters at a time not to overcrowd the pan. Fry turning until puffed and golden.
5. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain from oil on paper towel. Sprinkle with flavoured sugar or drizzle over the sauce. Best served hot! 
6. Enjoy!


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