The aroma of freshly fried dough wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in one of Palestine’s cherished desserts. These small, round dough balls are not just treats; they are a symbol of joy and celebration in Palestinian culture. Often served during family gatherings and festive occasions, their golden, crispy exterior hides a soft, warm center that is generously soaked in sweet syrup. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a burst of sweetness, evoking nostalgia and warmth.
Awameh, or as they are affectionately known in Arabic (عوامة), trace their roots deep within the culinary traditions of the Levant. This dish has been a staple in Palestinian households for generations, often prepared during special occasions such as weddings, Ramadan, and Eid celebrations. The recipe has evolved over time, with families adding their unique twists, but the essence of this beloved sweet remains unchanged. It reflects the hospitality and generosity of Palestinian culture, where sharing food is a fundamental part of community bonding.
What sets these sweet fried dough balls apart is not only their texture but also their method of preparation. The dough is leavened with yeast, resulting in a fluffy interior, while the frying process creates a perfectly crispy outer layer. The addition of rose water in the syrup infuses the dish with a distinct floral aroma, elevating its flavor profile. Unlike other fried dough desserts, awameh’s unique combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout treat in Palestinian cuisine.
The Must-Do’s
To achieve authentic awameh, ensure that the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten, which contributes to its fluffy texture. Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial—this step should not be rushed. When frying, maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy dough balls. Finally, soaking them in the syrup while warm ensures they absorb just the right amount of sweetness without becoming soggy.
Delight in these small, round dough balls fried until golden and crispy, then soaked in fragrant sugar syrup. Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat slightly before serving.
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add lemon juice and rose water, stirring well. Remove from heat and let cool.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and pinch off small pieces (about the size of a golf ball).
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the dough balls in batches, turning until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes each.
Remove the fried dough balls and drain on paper towels briefly.
While still warm, dip the fried dough balls into the cooled syrup, allowing them to soak for a few seconds.
Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with crushed pistachios, and serve warm.
Ingredients
Directions
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add lemon juice and rose water, stirring well. Remove from heat and let cool.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and pinch off small pieces (about the size of a golf ball).
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the dough balls in batches, turning until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes each.
Remove the fried dough balls and drain on paper towels briefly.
While still warm, dip the fried dough balls into the cooled syrup, allowing them to soak for a few seconds.
Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with crushed pistachios, and serve warm.
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat slightly before serving.
Pro Tips
For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding a pinch of cardamom to the dough for added warmth and spice. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can bake the dough balls instead of frying them, though they won’t have the same crunch. A common mistake is to overcrowd the frying pan; fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Lastly, serve them warm for the best experience.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful dough balls are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a dessert after a lavish meal or enjoy them as a sweet snack with Arabic coffee or mint tea. They can also be presented at celebrations alongside other traditional sweets, creating a colorful and inviting spread.
Garnishing & Presentation
Enhance the visual appeal of your awameh by sprinkling crushed pistachios on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a delightful crunch that complements the soft dough. For an elegant presentation, serve them in a beautiful dish drizzled with syrup, making sure to showcase their golden hue.
الطعام يقرّب القلوب
This Arabic proverb translates to ‘Food brings hearts together.’ It emphasizes the importance of sharing meals and the bonds created through communal dining, highlighting how dishes like awameh play a vital role in Palestinian hospitality.
As I reminisce about my childhood, I recall the sweet scent of awameh filling my grandmother’s kitchen. She would always prepare them for family gatherings, and the joy on everyone’s faces as they indulged in these treats was unforgettable. Making awameh is not just about following a recipe; it’s about continuing a legacy of love and tradition, bringing family together around the table.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Deep frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Cooking Techniques
Frying
Cooking food in hot oil, which creates a crispy outer texture while keeping the inside soft.
Simmering
Cooking a liquid just below the boiling point, allowing flavors to meld without boiling over.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a sweet treat after meals or during festive occasions.
- Pair with Arabic coffee or mint tea for a delightful experience.
Garnish Suggestions
- Sprinkle with crushed pistachios for added flavor and texture.
- Drizzle extra syrup over the top for a sweeter finish.