Falafel

Falafel is a common form of street food across the Middle East. The croquettes are regularly eaten as part of meze. Ready to make them at home?

These deep-fried patty-shaped fritters are made from broad beans, ground chickpeas, or both.

Soak 1 cup dried Garbanzo beans (chickpeas – NOT canned chickpeas) in a bowl and cover with water. Allow them to soak overnight. Drain before using.

In a food processor, pulse together – soaked chickpeas, 1 green chilli, 3 garlic cloves, 1 chopped large onion, 1 cup chopped parsley and 1 cup chopped cilantro. Add 1 tsp cumin, salt, 2 cardamom pods, 1/2 tsp crushed black pepper, 2 tbs chickpea flour and 1/2 tsp baking soda to the mixture. Blend until well combined.

Shape and flatten the mixture into small round patties. You could use a cookie scoop.

In a large pan, heat 1 cup oil over medium heat. Test the temperature of the oil by dropping a small piece of mixture into the pan; its ready if the piece sizzles and floats in the oil.

Carefully place falafel patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.

Once fried, place falafel on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Serve falafel hot with your favorite sauce or in pita bread with veggies.

By Christ & Co.