Arnabeet, the Arabic word for “cauliflower,” is often interchangeable with the name of the popular fried cauliflower dish that can be found on tables across the Middle East. There are many versions of these Middle Eastern cauliflower bites (Arnabeet), but in this iteration, cornstarch helps dry out the cauliflower’s surface to ensure a crisp exterior without needing a full dredge. These fried Middle Eastern cauliflower bites can be served as an appetizer along with other mezze, as a side dish, or even piled into a pita shawarma-style and topped with all the fixings.
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ingredients
Fried Cauliflower:
Tahini Sauce:
directions
For the fried cauliflower, remove stems and leaves from the cauliflower and cut into quarters. Remove the core and break the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Transfer to a large bowl, add cornstarch and toss until well coated.
In a large high-sided, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot, such as a cast iron skillet, heat 1-inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once oil has reached 350℉ (177℃), carefully transfer the cauliflower to the skillet using tongs. Fry, working in batches and turning frequently until the cauliflower is deep golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove cooked cauliflower with a slotted spoon or tongs and transfer to a cooling rack lined with layers of paper towel to drain. Once all of the cauliflower is cooked, transfer to a large bowl, add spices and salt and toss to coat cauliflower in seasonings.
For the tahini sauce, combine tahini, garlic, lemon and salt in a small bowl and stir to combine. Stir in ice water, a few tablespoons at a time, until tahini sauce is smooth and has the consistency of runny honey.
Serve cauliflower warm with tahini sauce.
AIR FRYER INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1:
Preheat air fryer to 425F. Remove stems from cauliflower and cut into quarters. Remove core and break cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Transfer to a large bowl, add cornstarch and toss until well coated.
Step 2:
Arrange cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer and drizzle with olive oil to coat. Air fry, working in batches if needed, until cauliflower is deep golden brown, about 15 minutes*.
Step 3:
Transfer cooked cauliflower to a large bowl and toss with spices and salt until well coated.
Step 4:
Serve cauliflower warm with tahini sauce.
*Note: Cooking time will vary depending on your air fryer. Check regularly to avoid over-cooking.