Introduction
Hummusiya and Zalabiya are among the most famous traditional Palestinian sweets, closely associated with memories of old homes, popular markets, and family evenings gathered around the heater during winter.
These desserts are simple in ingredients yet rich in flavor, reflecting a rural and Bedouin lifestyle that relied on readily available household ingredients without complexity.
Despite the great evolution of modern desserts, Hummusiya and Zalabiya have retained their special place in Palestinian hearts, as they carry an authentic taste and an unforgettable heritage flavor.
What Makes Hummusiya and Zalabiya Beloved Traditional Sweets?
1) Simple and Accessible Ingredients
They are usually made from:
- Chickpeas
- Flour
- Sugar or honey
- Oil
These ingredients were commonly found in most old Palestinian homes.
2) Authentic Eastern Flavor
Traditional sweets combine sweetness with distinctive oriental aromas, without artificial additives.
3) Strong Connection to Winter Occasions
Zalabiya, in particular, is prepared during winter as it is served hot and crispy, helping warm the body.
4) Part of Childhood Memories
Most Palestinians remember the sound of sizzling oil and the smell of frying Zalabiya, or the crunchy taste of Hummusiya sold in traditional markets.
What Is Hummusiya?
Hummusiya is a simple sweet made from roasted chickpeas coated with sugar or honey.
It is known for:
- Its crunchy texture
- Good nutritional value
- Easy preparation
- Long shelf life without spoilage
It was commonly sold by street vendors in villages and cities and was especially popular among children.
Hummusiya Ingredients
- 2 cups boiled chickpeas, well dried
- 1 cup sugar or ½ cup honey
- 1 tbsp oil
- A pinch of vanilla or cinnamon (optional)
How to Prepare Hummusiya
1) Roasting the Chickpeas
- Roast the chickpeas in a pan until golden.
- They must be completely dry to achieve perfect crunchiness.
2) Preparing the Sugar Mixture
- Melt the sugar in a small pot over heat until it turns into light caramel.
- Honey can be used instead of sugar.
3) Coating the Chickpeas
- Quickly add the roasted chickpeas to the caramel and stir well until fully coated.
4) Spreading the Mixture
- Pour the mixture onto parchment paper or a greased surface.
- Spread with a spoon, let cool, then cut into pieces.
What Is Zalabiya?
Zalabiya consists of small balls or strips of light dough fried in oil and then soaked in sugar syrup.
It is characterized by:
- A hot, crispy exterior
- A soft interior texture
- Excellent syrup absorption
- A unique flavor that makes it one of the most popular winter desserts
Zalabiya is an essential part of Palestinian culinary culture, especially during cold winter nights.
Palestinian Zalabiya Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Oil for frying
- Sugar syrup (sugar + water + lemon juice)
Step-by-Step Zalabiya Preparation
1) Preparing the Dough
- Mix flour with yeast and sugar.
- Gradually add water until a very soft batter forms, similar to pancake batter.
- Let ferment for 30–45 minutes.
2) Shaping the Zalabiya
- Heat oil well.
- Scoop small portions using a spoon or piping bag.
- Fry until golden and crispy.
3) Preparing the Syrup
- Boil sugar and water with a little lemon juice until medium consistency.
4) Soaking the Zalabiya
- Dip Zalabiya immediately after frying into the syrup.
- Serve hot for the best taste.
Secrets for Perfect Hummusiya and Zalabiya
- Chickpeas must be completely dry for ideal crunchiness.
- Control caramel color carefully to avoid bitterness.
- Zalabiya dough should be very soft for a light, crispy texture.
- High oil temperature is essential to prevent excess oil absorption.
- Soak Zalabiya in syrup immediately after frying for best absorption.
Nutritional Value of Hummusiya and Zalabiya
1) Hummusiya
- Rich in plant-based protein
- Provides high energy
- Suitable as a light snack for children
2) Zalabiya
- Provides warmth and energy in winter
- Easy to digest when eaten in moderation
- Calories can be reduced by using lighter syrup and suitable oil
Conclusion
Hummusiya and Zalabiya remain among the traditional sweets that carry memories of childhood and old Palestinian homes.
They are simple in ingredients yet full of warmth and nostalgia, still present in family gatherings and popular markets.
Today, you can easily prepare them at home and enjoy the same authentic flavor once made by grandmothers in a beautiful, unforgettable time.
