Arab breakfast -3. Falafel - Chickpea and fava bean patties - vegan

Falafel - Chickpea and Fava Bean Fritters

Welcome to the delicious world of falafel! These crispy fritters, made from chickpeas and/or fava beans, are a true culinary treasure, loved not only in Arab countries but also around the globe. Falafel is so popular that it has made its way into international restaurant menus, including fast-food outlets. Cook this falafel recipe with me, perfect for a healthy breakfast, a savory appetizer, or a vegan meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 1/2 cup dried fava beans
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander leaves (or 1 teaspoon of ground dried coriander)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- Oil for frying

About falafel

The origins of falafel are lost in the mists of time, but it is believed that the recipe evolved from a tradition of using legumes as a protein source. These fritters have become a staple in vegetarian diets, boasting a rich flavor and crispy texture, making them easy to serve and adapt in various dishes. Typically, falafel is served with pita bread, hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables, but it can also be the star of a delicious sandwich.

Preparing falafel

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by soaking the chickpeas and fava beans in cold water for 24 hours. This step is essential as it helps activate the proteins and eases the grinding process.

2. Grinding the vegetables: After the beans have soaked, drain the water and pass them through a meat grinder or food processor. Place the resulting paste in a large bowl.

3. Preparing the mixture: Chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and coriander using a blender or chopper. Add the vegetable mixture to the bowl with the chickpea and fava bean paste. Then, add the flour, salt, pepper, cumin, and baking soda. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little water, but be careful not to make it too soft.

4. Chilling the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the paste chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is important for achieving firmer falafels that won’t fall apart during frying.

5. Forming the fritters: After the chilling time has passed, remove the mixture from the refrigerator and form fritters the size of a walnut. You can use a special spoon to shape them evenly.

6. Frying the falafel: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil with a small test: throw a piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s ready for frying. Fry the fritters in batches for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.

7. Draining excess oil: Use a spatula to remove the falafel from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving falafel

Falafel can be served in various ways, but the most popular method is in sandwiches with pita bread. Open the pita pocket and fill it with falafel, then add lettuce, hummus, spicy pepper paste, and pickles. You can also experiment with sauces like tahini or a yogurt sauce with mint for an extra touch of freshness.

Suggestions and variations

For a spicier version, you can add fresh chili peppers to the falafel mixture. You can also try using different spices like paprika or turmeric to give the dish a unique twist.

Nutritional benefits

Falafel is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. Chickpeas and fava beans are rich in nutrients, contributing to digestive health and blood sugar control. This dish is ideal for vegetarians and vegans, offering a hearty and nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned chickpeas?: While canned chickpeas can be used, the results may not be as good. It is recommended to use dried chickpeas as they have a better texture.

2. Can falafel be frozen?: Yes, falafel freezes very well. You can fry them, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

3. What other recipes can falafel be combined with?: Falafel pairs perfectly with fresh salads like tabbouleh, hummus, or various types of yogurt sauces. It can also be served alongside grilled vegetables.

In conclusion, preparing falafel is a delicious and satisfying experience that will bring joy to your table. Whether served at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this falafel recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let’s cook together!

 Ingredients: 1 cup of dried chickpeas 1/2 cup of dried garden beans (fava beans) 1 medium onion 3 cloves of garlic 2 tablespoons of flour 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves 2 tablespoons of fresh coriander leaves (or 1 teaspoon of ground dried coriander) 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste) 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper 3/4 teaspoon of ground cumin 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds 1 tablespoon of baking soda cooking oil for frying

 Tags:  naut bob(fava beans) green parsley green coriander sesame seeds ground cumin salt pepper baking soda flour