Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, milk, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms. You can use an electric mixer with a dough hook for easier mixing.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup
- Make the Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using. Allow the syrup to cool.
Step 3: Shape and Air Fry the Lokma
- Shape the Dumplings:
- Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Using a piping bag or plastic bag with the tip cut off, pipe small dollops of dough onto the surface. Alternatively, use two spoons to scoop out small portions of dough. Each dumpling should be about 1 inch in diameter.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Lokma:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil. Place the dumplings in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each to allow for expansion. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook Until Golden:
- Air fry the lokma at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Coat with Syrup and Serve
- Coat with Syrup:
- Once cooked, remove the dumplings from the air fryer and immediately dip them in the cooled syrup, ensuring they are well-coated. You can use a fork or tongs to help with this process.
- Cool and Serve:
- Place the coated lokma on a cooling rack to allow any excess syrup to drip off. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Lokma
- Consistent Size: Try to shape the dumplings into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fryer Capacity: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
- Syrup Temperature: Ensure the syrup is cool before dipping the hot dumplings to get a nice coating.
Nutritional Information (Per Dumpling, Approximate)
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
Conclusion
Crispy Lokma Dumplings made in the air fryer offer a delightful blend of sweetness and texture. With their golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, these treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving them for dessert or as a special snack, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Enjoy making these crispy lokma dumplings and experimenting with different toppings or dips. They are a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed in many ways!