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Lebanese Fried Bites

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer vegetarian, Appetizers

Lebanese Fried Bites

Lebanese Fried Bites come from the heart of home kitchens, where the sounds of sizzling oil and the aroma of frying vegetables create a familiar symphony. This dish is a staple at Lebanese tables, served generously and shared among family and friends. It embodies the essence of home cooking, where ingredients are measured by instinct and shared with love.

Expect a delightful crunch followed by a burst of flavor as the savory fried vegetables give way to a hint of lemon's brightness. The salt and pepper are added with a knowing hand, creating a balance that speaks of experience. Each bite is a tribute to the art of home cooking, best enjoyed in the company of those you cherish.

Ingredients

  • 400 gvegetables — sliced
  • 100 gflour
  • for fryingoil
  • lemon — to serve
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by preparing your vegetables. Choose a mix of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the 100 g of flour with a generous pinch of fine sea salt and black pepper. Toss the vegetable pieces in the seasoned flour until they are well coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when fried.
  3. Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or pot to submerge the vegetables halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of floured vegetable into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
  4. Carefully add the floured vegetables to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the vegetables and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Once all the vegetables are fried, transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness and enhance the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with more fine sea salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve the Lebanese Fried Bites immediately while they are still hot and crispy. These bites are perfect for sharing and embody the generous spirit of Lebanese home cooking.
Cover of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Lebanese Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Lebanese volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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