Luqaimat

Luqaimat are small Emirati fried dough bites traditionally associated with Ramadan and special occasions. This profile follows Gulf News's complete milk-and-egg batter, finished specifically with date syrup and sesame rather than an interchangeable syrup.

Cardamom, saffron and fennel perfume the lightly sweet dough. Date syrup adds deep caramel-fruit sweetness, while sesame brings a nutty finish.

Fresh luqaimat are round and golden, with a crisp shell around a soft, airy centre. The dark date-syrup glaze catches on their surface beneath a scattering of sesame seeds.