Falafel

Ingredients

• •2 cups dried chickpeas
• •1/2 tsp baking soda (for soaking)
• •1 onion, chopped
• •3 cloves garlic
• •1/2 cup chopped parsley
• •1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• •1 tsp cumin
• •1 tsp ground coriander
• •1/4 tsp baking soda (added just before frying)
• •2 tbsp flour
• •Vegetable oil for frying
• •Salt to taste

Steps

1. 1.Soak the dried chickpeas with the baking soda in plenty of water for 18-24 hours (do not use canned chickpeas or pre-cook them - raw soaked chickpeas are what give falafel its light, fluffy texture).
2. 2.Drain the chickpeas well and pulse them in a food processor with the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro until finely ground but not puréed.
3. 3.Add the cumin, coriander, flour, and salt, pulsing until a coarse, holdable mixture forms; refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. 4.Just before frying, mix in the remaining baking soda, then shape the mixture into small patties or balls.
5. 5.Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the falafel until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve in pita with tahini sauce.