Loukoumades have a long history that dates back to the first Olympic Games. Greeks revered the Gods, and the reward was in the form of “honey tokens,” which were pieces of fried dough dusted with honey. Al-Baghdadi first identified the dish as luqmat al-qdi in the 13th century.
Greek doughnut holes are prepared by deep-frying yeasty dough and drizzling or soaking it in honey. Each moment you bite into one, the sweetness explodes in a syrupy sweet way. These delectable snacks, now routinely offered at Greek restaurants and events around the nation, were created more than 2,000 years ago.
The term “charisoi”, which translates to “charisma” in modern English, was once used to refer to loukoumades. Their more recent name is derived from the Arabic word “luqma,” which means “small bite.” It was prepared by palace chefs in the Ottoman Empire for centuries and affected by the cuisines of other former Ottoman Empire nations in the Caucasus, Middle East, and Balkans.
Since then, the recipe for loukoumades has been passed down through Turkey, Egypt, Persia, and even Italy. As a result, zeppole and then donuts have spread throughout the world. Therefore, when you order that doughnut for your Facebook timeline, take a moment to consider where these glazed delights come from and that, when you chew into one, you’re also eating into a historical relic.
History of Loukoumades
They were one of the original awards given to champions of the Olympic Games, which debuted in 776 B.C., as stated by the ancient Greek poet Callimachus. The first mention of any type of pastry or dessert in literature from around the world is made by Callimachus in his works, where he refers to them as “honey tokens.” Therefore, donut holes and loukoumades are the first desserts documented in human history.
In the tale “The Porter and the Three Ladies of Baghdad” from “One Thousand and One Nights“, Loukoumades is also discussed. During his travels through medieval India, the adventurer and philosopher Ibn Battuta first tasted the meal he would later come to know as Luqaymat al-Qadi at a supper in Multan, where his hosts referred to it as al-Hashimi.
Today’s Olympic competitions may not give out loukoumades, but this pastry is still revered in Greece. You may visit any city in Greece anytime and discover stores selling loukoumades.
Visit Greco in Boston, MA Today
Our Loukoumades, which come in various flavors, is undoubtedly our favorite dessert at Greco Truly Greek. As we have mentioned, loukoumades are fried doughnuts coated with cinnamon and honey syrup and served warmly. It may occasionally have walnuts or another topping of your choice. At Greco Truly Greek, we are open to giving you the best Loukoumades you’ve ever come across – visit us today.
