Iftar Inspiration - Spicy Falafel
Channel: Muslim Space
Date: 06/05/2021

Iftar Inspiration - Spicy Falafel submitted by Salma Igram (aka Melna)

Lebanese, Palestinian, Egyptian - the debate is over, Melna's falafel reign supreme. 

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INGREDIENTS
1 cup peeled, dry split fava beans soaked in 3 cups cold water with 1 Tbsp baking soda
1 cup dry chickpeas (same as fava)
1 handful fresh parsley
1 handful fresh cilantro
1 medium onion cut in chunks
4 spring onions, cut coarse
6 garlic cloves 
2 red chili peppers chopped
1 Tbsp coriander ground
1 Tbsp cumin
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp pepper 
1 Tbsp sea salt 
2 tsp baking soda
Peanut oil for frying
Sesame seeds ( optional)

Tomatoes, pickles, parsley, mint and Tahini citrus sauce (see below) to serve with Falafel.

Rinse both the the chickpeas and fava beans from the soaking water thoroughly. Drain.
Place in a food processor and pulse to grind coarse.
Add in the vegetables and spices and taste to adjust seasoning.

In a large wok or deep Dutch oven place oil enough to deep fry.
Heat the oil to 350 f 
While oil is heating, add baking soda to falafel mixture and beat vigorously to incorporate well.

Prepare the Tahini citrus sauce and various garnishes.

Shape the falafel and gently layer in hot oil.
Remove when golden and crisp and fluffy inside.

Tahini Citrus sauce
2 cloves small garlic mashed
Juice of 2 lemons
1/2 cup tahini
1/2 cup yoghurt plain
Sea salt

Mix together. Drizzle on falafel or use as a dip.