Falafel

Falafel also known in Egypt and Sudan as ta'meya, is a fried ball or patty made from spiced fava beans and/or chickpeas. It is a popular form of fast food in the Middle East, where it is also served as a mezze (snack or tapas).


INGREDIENTS

1 lb. canned chick-peas (drained)
1 large onion, chopped
2 tbs. finely chopped parsley
1 egg
1 tsp. salt
1/2 to 1 cup breadcrumbs or fine bulgur (crushed wheat)
1 tsp. ground coriander or cumin
1 tsp. dried hot peppers
1 tsp. garlic powder
vegetable oil (for frying)


DIRECTIONS

1. Combine chick-peas with onion. Add parsley, lightly beaten egg and spices. Mix in blender.
2. Add breadcrumbs until mixture forms a small ball without sticking to your hands.
3. Form chick-pea mixture into small balls about the size of a quarter (one inch in diameter).
4. Flatten patties slightly and fry until golden brown on both sides.
5. Drain falafel balls on paper towels.
6. Serve individually with toothpicks as an hors d'oeuvre or as a sandwich filling with chopped tomato, cucumber, radish, lettuce, onion, hummus and/or tehina inside pita bread.
7. Makes about 24 falafel balls.