Zlabia is a traditional Algerian sweet made from a fermented dough, fried into spiral shapes, and generously soaked in a sweet syrup. This dessert is characterized by its crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Served hot or at room temperature, Zlabia is often enjoyed alongside tea or coffee, making it a popular choice during festive gatherings and family celebrations.
The origins of Zlabia can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with variations of the recipe found throughout North Africa, particularly in Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. Its preparation reflects the influence of Islamic culinary practices, where sweets play a significant role in celebrations and religious observances, especially during Ramadan. Zlabia has evolved over centuries, with each region putting its unique spin on the dish. Today, it remains a beloved staple at family gatherings and cultural festivities, symbolizing hospitality and the joy of sharing delicious food.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 tablespoon of yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 and 1/4 cups of warm water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups of sugar (for syrup)
- 1 and 1/2 cups of water (for syrup)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for syrup)
- 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water (for syrup)
Method:
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for at least 2 hours.
4. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to about 180°C (356°F).
5. Using a funnel with a wide opening, pour the dough into the hot oil in a circular motion to create a spiral shape. Fry until golden brown and crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels.
6. For the sugar syrup, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and orange blossom water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
7. Dip the fried Zlabia into the sugar syrup, ensuring it's fully coated. Allow to soak for about 5 minutes.
8. Remove the Zlabia from the syrup and place on a wire rack to cool.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 cups of flour
- Calories: 910
- Carbohydrates: 190g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Contains B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin)
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus
- Nutritional benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and is a good source of protein for muscle repair.
2. 1 tablespoon of yeast
- Calories: 21
- Carbohydrates: 2.2g
- Protein: 2.7g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, and folate)
- Minerals: Selenium, potassium, iron
- Nutritional benefit: Helps with fermentation and rising of the dough; contains B vitamins that support metabolism and digestion.
3. 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Calories: 16
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Provides a quick source of energy but should be consumed in moderation.
4. 1 teaspoon of salt
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2,325mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Regulates fluid balance in the body and supports nerve function.
5. 1 and 1/4 cups of warm water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Keeps the dough moist and helps activate the yeast for fermentation.
6. Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Calories: 120 per tablespoon (approx. 960 total for 8 tablespoons)
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 120g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin E (depending on the type of oil)
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Provides healthy fats necessary for frying and adds flavor to the dish.
7. 2 cups of sugar (for syrup)
- Calories: 1,536
- Carbohydrates: 400g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Sweetens the syrup and adds flavor; provides quick energy.
8. 1 and 1/2 cups of water (for syrup)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Helps dissolve the sugar and creates the syrup without adding calories.
9. 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for syrup)
- Calories: 4
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C
- Minerals: Potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Adds flavor to the syrup and provides antioxidants; supports the immune system.
10. 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water (for syrup)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Adds a floral aroma and enhances the flavor of the syrup without adding calories or macronutrients.
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