Chickpea Falafel

Serves 4

Falafels are Middle Eastern fast food, perfect for a vegetarian and vegan. They are deep-fried bite size balls of chickpeas mixed with herbs, onions and chilli.

Falafels are wonderful party food for all occasions, great if you are planning to throw a massive party and want to spice up the buffet with something more interesting then sausage rolls. Or perfect as a light snack while enjoying a relaxed summer evening with friends and a few beers or a glass of wine.

Falafels can be served hot or cold, so as well as being good party food it makes a delicious dinner, served hot in pita bread with a fresh salad. If you have any left over’s falafels are ideal for tomorrows lunch at work or school.

Ingredients

• 400g canned chickpeas, drained
• 3 tsp coriander seeds
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 red onions
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 green chillies
• 1 handful parsley leaves
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Black pepper

Method

1. Put the chickpeas in a food processor with the spices, onions, garlic, chillies, herbs and pepper, blend until mix becomes a grainy pulp.
2. Make flat circles about  4cm wide 2cm thick.
3. Heat oil in a sauce pan, use enough to cover falafels.
4. Deep fry a few falafels at a time for 2 to 3 minutes until deep golden-brown.
5. Serve warm or cold.