Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Jewelled Pistachio-Crusted Feta Sticks:
- Feta Sticks:
- 200 g firm feta cheese, cut into thick sticks
- 1 cup roasted pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Black pepper to taste
- For Air Frying:
- Olive oil spray
- Pomegranate-Chili Dip:
- 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
- 1 tbsp chili flakes or chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey or pomegranate molasses
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Jewelled Pistachio-Crusted Feta Sticks:
- Step 1: Pat the feta sticks dry with paper towels and place them in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the chopped pistachios and panko breadcrumbs. Season with a little black pepper.
- Step 3: Dip each feta stick in flour, then into the beaten egg, and finally press into the pistachio-panko mixture to coat fully.
- Step 4: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange the coated feta sticks inside. Air-fry at 200°C (390°F) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Step 5: For the pomegranate-chili dip, combine pomegranate juice, chili flakes, honey/molasses, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Heat until simmering.
- Step 6: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the mixture becomes glossy and slightly thickened. Allow to cool.
- Step 7: Serve the feta sticks hot with the ruby pomegranate-chili dip on the side, and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Pro Tips for Making the Best Jewelled Pistachio-Crusted Feta Sticks
- For extra crunch, ensure that the pistachios are finely chopped and fully coat the feta sticks.
- Make sure to freeze the feta sticks; this prevents them from breaking apart while breading.
- Experiment with other nuts if desired, such as almonds or walnuts, for a different flavor profile.
- The dip can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Pair these feta sticks with additional fruits or vegetables for a visually appealing platter.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the feta sticks instead of air-frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (390°F) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden, though they may not be as crispy as the air-fried version.
2. How can I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover feta sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat them in the air fryer for freshness.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
While feta works best for this recipe, you can experiment with goat cheese or halloumi for a different taste and texture.
4. Is the dip spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your taste by varying the amount of chili flakes or chili paste used in the dip.
5. What can I serve with these feta sticks?
They pair well with fresh vegetable sticks, pita chips, or crusty bread for a delightful appetizer spread.
Conclusion
These Jewelled Pistachio-Crusted Feta Sticks present an irresistible combination of crunch and creaminess, enhanced by the vivid colors and flavours of the pomegranate-chili dip. They are perfect for entertaining or as a luxurious snack at home. Try to make them for your next gathering, and watch your guests be wowed by both the taste and presentation!
