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Keto Appetizers

Fried Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce

Whenever I need a crowd-pleasing keto appetizer, this fried cauliflower with tahini sauce never disappoints. The golden, crunchy florets dipped in a creamy, garlicky tahini sauce are so satisfying. It's a simple, low-carb twist on comfort food that even non-keto friends rave about. The outside gets perfectly crisp while the inside stays tender, and the tahini sauce adds a bright, nutty finish. Best part? It comes together in minutes, making it ideal for last-minute entertaining.

15 min Prep time 20 min Cook time 35 min Total time 4 Servings 350 Calories
Fried Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce

Ingredients

  • /3 cup tahini
  • cloves garlic, minced
  • tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • /4 cup water
  • /4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • cups vegetable oil for frying
  • head cauliflower, cut into florets

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    I start by whisking the tahini, minced garlic, parsley, water, and lemon juice until silky smooth. A pinch of salt and pepper is all it needs, then I set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld. Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C). While the oil comes to temperature, break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, making sure they're dry to prevent splattering. Fry the florets in batches—don't overcrowd the pot—until they turn a beautiful golden brown, about 8 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. A light sprinkle of salt right after frying makes them extra tasty. It’s important to maintain the oil temperature between batches to ensure each piece gets that perfect crunch. This dish is best enjoyed hot and crispy, so time it to serve as soon as the last batch is done.

Chef's Tip

I always pat the cauliflower florets dry before frying—any extra moisture makes the oil splatter and reduces crispiness. A final dusting of flaky sea salt right after draining takes the flavor up a notch.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness—avoid the microwave, which makes them soggy.

Variation Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the frying oil or mix harissa into the tahini sauce. You can also swap cauliflower for broccoli florets or serve the crispy bites over a bed of mixed greens for a light keto salad.

Frequently Asked Questions