As far as I'm concerned, falafel should be a food group unto itself. And even though it's deep-fried, it feels healthy, so I consider it a no-guilt junk food. It's super cheap to buy bulk dry garbanzo beans, so this is a good option for the budget-conscious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
- 2 tablespoons onion, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- Oil for frying
- For Tahini Dip:
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
Directions
1. Soak chickpeas overnight or for at least 6 hours.
2. When ready to cook, in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat, bring about 2 inches of oil to 350°F. On a baking sheet, place crumpled paper towels to drain falafel as they cook.
3. Drain chickpeas and place in a food processor; process until beans are very finely ground.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, baking powder, and parsley. Process adding water a tablespoon at a time until mixture holds together when a spoonful is pressed in your hand.
5. Shape heaping tablespoonfuls of chickpea mix into slightly flattened disks.
6. Cook in preheated oil for 3-5 minutes or until golden on both sides. Remove to prepared baking sheet.
7. Serve with Tahini Dip.
Tahini Dip
1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and water until smooth.
2. Add lemon juice, salt, and garlic.
3. Keep in an airtight container and use within 3 days.
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Submitted 1/25/12.
Source: Vegan Junk Food by Lane Gold
Submitted By: b smith
Falafel with Tahini Dip