The dough for luqaimat is made from flour, yeast, and a little saffron or cardamom for flavour. It is left to rise until light and bubbly, then spoonfuls are dropped into hot oil where they puff up into perfect golden balls in just a few minutes. Street vendors across Qatar fry them fresh to order.
Date syrup – made from Qatar's beloved date palm fruit – is drizzled generously over the top while the luqaimat are still warm. The combination of crunchy exterior, soft warm centre, and sweet sticky syrup is irresistible. Some people add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon as well.
Luqaimat have been made in this region for hundreds of years. The name means 'small bites' in Arabic. In old times, they were often the treat given to guests to welcome them, a tradition that is still alive today. Sharing a plate of luqaimat with someone is a way of saying, 'I am glad you are here.'