If you’re craving a flavorful twist on the classic crispy fries, look no further than this Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe. This vibrant dish brings together golden, perfectly baked potatoes coated in aromatic za’atar spice and paired with a luscious, tangy tahini sauce that feels like a little celebration in every bite. Each element creates an unforgettable experience, blending Middle Eastern flavors with familiar comfort food vibes that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Every item plays a crucial role, from the starchy potatoes providing a crisp base, to the za’atar adding an herby, earthy zing, and the creamy tahini sauce balancing it all with a smooth, tangy finish.
- 4 large potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a crispy outside and fluffy inside.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for crisping up the fries and helping the za’atar stick.
- 2 tbsp za’atar spice blend: This Middle Eastern mix is full of thyme, sesame, and sumac, introducing a bright, herbal flavor.
- Salt to taste: A pinch enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/3 cup tahini: Brings a rich, nutty creaminess that makes the dipping sauce irresistibly smooth.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds the perfect acidity to balance the tahini’s richness.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Gives the sauce a subtle punch of savory depth.
- 2-3 tbsp water: Used to thin the tahini sauce to a silky, dippable consistency.
How to Make Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (430°F). It’s important the oven is hot to ensure your fries turn out irresistibly crispy. Meanwhile, wash and cut your potatoes into fries—aim for uniform thickness so they bake evenly. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Season the Fries
Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the za’atar spice blend along with salt. Toss everything together until the fries are thoroughly coated with oil and spices. This step is where the za’atar’s herbaceous aroma infuses each fry, making every bite a flavor celebration.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Spread the fries out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet—crowding will steam them instead of crisping. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye out for golden edges and a satisfying crunch, signaling they’re ready to pull from the oven.
Step 4: Whip Up the Tahini Sauce
While the fries bake, mix together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. The sauce may feel thick at first; slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time, whisking until it reaches a creamy, pourable consistency that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Once your za’atar fries are golden and crispy, serve them hot alongside the tahini sauce. The contrast of warm, crisp fries with the cool, creamy dip is truly irresistible.
How to Serve Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe even further, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of sumac on top. These garnishes add vibrant color and an extra zing of flavor that makes the dish feel fresh and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light salads, grilled meats, or even a bowl of hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The fragrant fries and rich tahini complement crisp vegetables and smoky flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your za’atar fries in a rustic wooden bowl or on a vibrant ceramic plate for a cozy, authentic feel. For a party, present the fries in individual cups with a dollop of tahini sauce on top for easy sharing and maximum crowd-pleasing appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover za’atar fries, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help maintain their texture, separate the fries from the tahini sauce before storing.
Freezing
Freezing za’atar fries is not recommended as it can diminish their crispiness. However, you can prepare and freeze the tahini sauce in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fries in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes to regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make fries soggy. Serve with freshly whisked tahini sauce to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
What is za’atar seasoning?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from dried thyme, oregano or marjoram, sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. It has a bright, herbaceous, and slightly tangy flavor that elevates many dishes, including these fries.
Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?
While fresh-cut potatoes offer the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use frozen fries if you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly and toss them with za’atar and olive oil after baking for maximum flavor.
Is tahini sauce difficult to make?
Not at all! Tahini sauce is incredibly simple—just tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water combined to a creamy consistency. It’s quick to whip up and adds a wonderful depth to the za’atar fries.
Can I add other spices to the za’atar fries?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your fries by adding a bit of smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for extra warmth and complexity while still letting the za’atar shine.
Are za’atar fries healthy?
Za’atar fries baked with olive oil are a lighter alternative to deep-fried potatoes. Za’atar itself is packed with antioxidants and herbs, and tahini adds healthy fats, making this dish both indulgent and nourishing when enjoyed in moderation.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly satisfying about the crunch of golden fries kissed with za’atar’s vibrant spices and dipped into a smooth, tangy tahini sauce. This Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe never fails to impress, whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself to a cozy night in. Give it a try—you might just find your new all-time favorite way to enjoy fries.
Print
Za’atar Fries with Tahini Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Za’atar Fries baked to golden perfection and served with a creamy, tangy tahini sauce for dipping. This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines the aromatic flavors of za’atar spice with tender oven-roasted potatoes, creating a deliciously unique alternative to traditional fries.
Ingredients
For the Za’atar Fries
- 4 large potatoes, cut into fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp za’atar spice blend
- Salt to taste
For the Tahini Sauce
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Fries: In a large bowl, toss the cut potato fries with olive oil, za’atar spice blend, and salt until they are evenly coated, ensuring every fry absorbs the flavors.
- Arrange Fries: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake Fries: Bake the fries for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through the baking time to achieve a uniformly crispy and golden texture.
- Make Tahini Sauce: While the fries are baking, whisk together tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency for easy dipping.
- Serve: Once the fries are crispy and golden, serve them hot alongside the tahini sauce for dipping, enjoying the vibrant flavors of this delicious dish.
Notes
- Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Adjust salt and za’atar quantity based on personal taste preferences.
- For extra crispiness, soak potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning.
- Tahini sauce consistency can be adjusted with water; make it thinner for dipping or thicker for drizzling.
- Store leftover fries and sauce separately in airtight containers and reheat fries in the oven for best texture.
