Zlabia (Middle Eastern Mini Funnel Cakes)

Step 1

Mix sugar, water, lemon juice, and rose water in a saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

Step 2

Bring to a slow boil for approximately ten minutes, or until it starts to have a syrupy consistency.

Step 3

Allow the syrup to cool off while you work on the batter.

Step 4

Mix yeast, sugar, and water. Cover, and allow to rest for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Mix in cornstarch, flour, salt, and baking powder.

Step 6

Cover and place in a warm location for one hour.

Step 7

Heat vegetable oil to 375 degrees F.

Step 8

Place batter in a squeeze bottle, cut the tip of the bottle if necessary.

Step 9

Squeeze batter out of the bottle, into the hot oil, forming 3″ circles resembling funnel cakes.

Step 10

Drain on paper towels. While still warm, dip the Zalabia in the syrup and allow excess to drip off.

Step 11

Continue until the batter is used up. Enjoy!