Loukoumades, or Greek fried donut balls, are also known as lo'met el adi in the Levant countries and zalabia in Egypt. They can be topped with honey, simple syrup, Nutella, powdered sugar, or nuts.
Start by mixing the dry ingredients for the loukoumades batter: flour, sugar, instant yeast, salt, and powdered milk.
Add the warm water and mix until there are no lumps. Cover with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for an hour.
While the batter is resting, prepare the orange blossom simple syrup. Mix the sugar and water in a pot, and bring it to a boil, stirring frequently. Once the syrup thickens, add the lemon juice and orange blossom water. Set aside to cool.
After resting an hour, the loukoumades batter should be ready to fry.
Use two spoons to shape the dough into balls. Dip the first spoon in water before scooping the dough. Use the second scoop to drop it in the hot oil.
Dip the spoon that's scooping the batter in water after every dough ball.
Stir the donut balls in the oil so that they are evenly cooked and a golden brown all around.
Using a strainer scoop the donut balls out of the hot oil. Place onto a paper towel lined plate until all of the donuts have been fried.
Serve hot. Top with crushed pistachios and the simple syrup (or honey). The syrup can be used as a dip too.