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Crispy Delicata Squash Rings with Easy Maple Tahini Drizzle

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These crispy delicata squash rings are battered and fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with a nutty-sweet maple tahini sauce. A quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing fall appetizer that’s ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup cold water
  • Vegetable or peanut oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2–3 tablespoons warm water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the squash: Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, then slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring. Pat rings dry with paper towels.
  2. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a small bowl, beat the egg. Add beaten egg and ice-cold water to dry ingredients. Whisk gently until just combined (a few lumps are fine). The batter should be similar to thin pancake batter.
  3. Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed pot. Clip a deep-fry thermometer to the side and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  4. Prepare the maple tahini drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add warm water one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously, until smooth and drizzle-able. Taste and adjust as needed.
  5. Batter and fry the squash rings: Working in batches of 3-4 rings, dip each ring into the batter, letting excess drip off. Carefully lower into hot oil using tongs. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through.
  6. Drain and season: Transfer fried rings to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still hot.
  7. Serve immediately: Arrange rings on a platter. Drizzle with maple tahini sauce or serve on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Keep the batter cold for best crispiness. Maintain oil temperature between 340°F and 360°F. Don’t overcrowd the pot. For extra crispy rings, try the double-fry method: fry for 90 seconds, cool, then fry again for 2 minutes before serving. The maple tahini drizzle can be made up to 3 days ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy delicata squash rings, maple tahini drizzle, fried squash, fall appetizer, vegetarian, easy appetizer

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