LOUKOUMADES

MAKES 16 PREP 25 MINS + STANDING COOK 15 MINS

In a small jug, combine ¼ cup warm milk, 1 tbsp caster sugar and ½ tsp salt. Sprinkle 7g packet dried yeast over. Cover, set aside in a warm place 10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups plain flour, ¾ cup warm milk, ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil and yeast mixture. Beat on low, 1-2 mins, until just smooth. Prove, covered, 1 hour, until doubled. SYRUP Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, stir ½ cup each honey and water and 1 strip lemon zest on low until combined, then bring to boil. Boil, not stirring, 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, cover to keep warm. In a large deep saucepan, heat enough vegetable oil to deep-fry on high. Using 2 tbsp dough at a time, roll into balls and place on lined tray. Deep-fry balls in 4 batches, 2-3 minutes each, turning until golden. Drain on paper towel. Toss doughnuts in warm syrup. Serve sprinkled with ½ cup chopped pistachios and accompanied with sliced figs.