Loukoumades (Greek Honey Doughnuts)

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups (480ml) warm water
• Vegetable oil, for deep-frying
• 1 cup (240ml) honey
• 1 cup (200g) sugar, for the syrup
• 1 cup (240ml) water, for the syrup
• Ground cinnamon, for topping
• Crushed walnuts, for topping

Before you cook

• Dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
• Whisk the flour and salt into the yeast mixture until you have a smooth, thick, pourable batter.
• Cover the bowl and let the batter rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until bubbly and doubled.

Steps

1. Combine the honey, sugar and water for the syrup in a saucepan.
2. Bring the syrup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until slightly thickened.
3. Set the syrup aside to stay warm.
4. Heat 3 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Scoop a tablespoon of batter at a time and carefully drop it into the hot oil.
6. Fry in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and puffed.
7. Lift the fried dough out with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. Dip the warm fritters into the warm honey syrup.
9. Arrange the syrup-soaked fritters on a plate.
10. Dust with ground cinnamon and scatter crushed walnuts over the top.
11. Serve warm.