How to Make Turkish Tulumba Pastries

1. Prepare the syrup

Start by making the syrup since it needs time to cool.

1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

3. Add the lemon juice and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.

The syrup must be cool when the hot pastries are added.

2. Make the dough

1. In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

3. Add the flour all at once and stir quickly with a wooden spoon.

4. Continue stirring until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Remove from heat and allow the dough to cool for a few minutes.

3. Add the eggs

Once the dough has cooled slightly:

1. Add the eggs one at a time.

2. Mix thoroughly after each egg until the dough becomes smooth and slightly sticky.

3. Stir in the semolina if using.

The dough should be soft enough to pipe.

4. Shape the pastries

Place the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip nozzle. This shape creates the classic ridges that help the pastry crisp up during frying.

5. Fry the tulumba

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

2. Pipe short strips of dough directly into the oil (about 2–3 inches long).

3. Use scissors or a knife to cut the dough pieces.

Fry them slowly, turning occasionally, until they become deep golden brown and crispy.

6. Soak in syrup

Immediately transfer the hot fried pastries into the cooled syrup.

Let them soak for 2–3 minutes, then remove and place them on a serving plate.

Serving Suggestions

Tulumba pastries are best served fresh and slightly warm. They are often enjoyed with:

• Turkish tea

• Strong coffee

• A sprinkle of crushed pistachios

• A dusting of coconut flakes

Tips for Perfect Tulumba

Use cool syrup and hot pastries
This contrast helps the pastries absorb just the right amount of sweetness.

Fry at medium heat
If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside stays soft.

Don’t overcrowd the pan
Frying in small batches helps the pastries cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Tulumba pastries are a delicious treat that combines simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. Their crisp texture and sweet syrup make them irresistible, especially when served with tea or coffee.

Once you try making them at home, you’ll discover that these golden pastries are not only delicious but also a fun and rewarding dessert to prepare.