Fried Cauliflower with Tahini
Cauliflower florets fried until deeply golden and caramelized, then arranged on a pool of lemony tahini sauce — simple, vegetarian, and one of the most satisfying things a Lebanese kitchen produces.
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All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 1 large head, broken into florets cauliflower
- 500 ml, for frying sunflower oil
- 4 tablespoons tahini
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 small, minced to paste garlic clove
- 3–4 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons, chopped flat-leaf parsley
- ½ teaspoon, for garnish sumac
Instructions
- Make the tahini sauce: whisk tahini with lemon juice, garlic paste, and salt. The mixture will seize — add cold water tablespoon by tablespoon, whisking continuously, until a smooth, pourable sauce forms. Taste for salt and lemon. Set aside.
- Pat cauliflower florets completely dry — surface moisture causes violent spitting in hot oil.
- Heat oil to 180°C in a deep pan. Test with a small floret — it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry florets in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning once, until deep golden-brown on all sides. Do not crowd.
- Drain on paper towels. Season immediately with a pinch of salt.
- Spread tahini sauce over a wide plate. Arrange fried cauliflower on top.
- Scatter chopped parsley, dust with sumac, and serve immediately.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fried Cauliflower with Tahini?
Cauliflower florets fried until deeply golden and caramelized, then arranged on a pool of lemony tahini sauce — simple, vegetarian, and one of the most satisfying things a Lebanese kitchen produces.
Where is Fried Cauliflower with Tahini from?
Fried Cauliflower with Tahini comes from Lebanese Coastal. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Fried Cauliflower with Tahini vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Fried Cauliflower with Tahini uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of sumac in Fried Cauliflower with Tahini?
The sumac called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Fried Cauliflower with Tahini its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Fried Cauliflower with Tahini?
In a Lebanese appetizers spread, Fried Cauliflower with Tahini is served as part of a mezze table — alongside warm pita or markook bread, other small dishes, and fresh vegetables. It also works as a starter before a larger meal.
Can I make Fried Cauliflower with Tahini ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.