Awama and Meshabbak – The Most Famous Arabic Sweets Recipe

Awama and Meshabbak – The Most Famous Arabic Sweets Recipe

Awama and Meshabbak are popular and traditional Arabic desserts known for their crispy, sweet flavor. They are especially popular in Palestine and Syria, and are often enjoyed during the winter months. These sweets are easy to make at home with ingredients that are usually readily available. Here's how to prepare Awama and Meshabbak with all the necessary ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients for Awama and Meshabbak:

• 4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 3 cups water
• 3 cups simple syrup (Qatar)
• A pinch of salt
• 1½ cups vegetable oil for frying

For the Simple Syrup (Qatar):

• 4 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• A few drops of lemon juice
• A splash of rose water or orange blossom water

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the yeast and water, and knead the mixture by hand until a soft dough forms. Cover and let the dough rest for about 4 hours.

2. Knead Again:
   After resting, knead the dough again until it becomes bubbly and light.

3. Prepare the Simple Syrup:
   In a pot over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil. Once it reaches a boil, turn off the heat, add the lemon juice and rose water or orange blossom water, and set aside to cool.

4. Fry the Awama:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan. Using a medium spoon, scoop out small portions of the dough and drop them into the hot oil. Dip the spoon in water between each scoop to prevent sticking. Fry the dough balls until they are golden and puffy.

5. Dip in Syrup:
   Remove the fried Awama from the oil and immediately immerse them in the cooled simple syrup. Let them soak briefly before removing.

6. Prepare the Meshabbak:
   Fill a piping bag or a "funnel with oil" with the dough. Hold the funnel’s opening closed with your finger to control the flow of the dough. Pour the dough into the hot oil in a circular, intertwined pattern to form the Meshabbak shape.

7. Fry and Dip the Meshabbak:
   Fry the Meshabbak until golden brown, then remove and dip them in the cold syrup.

8. Serve:
   Once soaked, place the Awama and Meshabbak on a serving plate. Enjoy these delicious, crispy treats!

Additional Tip: You can also make Awama with yogurt by replacing half of the water in the dough mixture with yogurt for a richer flavor.

Bon appétit! Enjoy your Awama and Meshabbak with family and friends!