Greek and Cyprus donuts: Loukoumades

Lokma or Loukoumades are tasty bites of heaven enjoyed by locals year-round. These delicious fluffy balls are made similar to donuts – retaining a sweet dough-like consistency. Deep-fried until golden and crispy, these mini treats are glazed with warm honey syrup, with cinnamon and garnished with walnuts.

Legend has it that the original recipe had been offered as a winner’s reward during the first Olympic Games. The dish was described as early as the 13th century by al-Baghdadi as luqmat al-qādi. The delicious honey-balls have multiple influences and can be traced back to many regions. Palace cooks made the dish in the Ottoman Empire for centuries; influenced by other countries’ cuisines of the former lands of the Ottoman Empire in the Balkans, Middle East, and the Caucasus. Today they are enjoyed mainly in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries. In Cyprus, certain places choose to use sesame seeds instead of walnuts. In truth, many places on the island always have their take on this dessert, all of which are worth trying.

Almost every home in Cyprus used to make loukoumades during Carnival (Sarakosti) and Theofania. There is a tradition where women used to throw loukoumades on the rooftop of their houses for the goblins (kalikantzaroi) to eat them and go away.

Loukoumades can be enjoyed as a snack with your coffee. However, they are usually served as a dessert after a long and delicious meal at tavernas and restaurants (like a meze).

Try them this year during your next visit to Greece or Cyprus! Find the perfect accommodation for you at LouisHotels.