Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups dried chickpeas (approximately 300 grams)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing the baking dish)
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Soak the chickpeas in water for about 8 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then grind them into a paste using a food processor or blender.
- In a bowl, combine the chickpea paste with the flour, baking powder, cumin, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties and place on a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Meanwhile, make the cucumber-yogurt sauce by mixing cucumber, yogurt, mint, and seasonings. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Serve the falafel with the cucumber-yogurt sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 250 per serving (based on small appetizers)
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 15g
Dish Characteristics:
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
- Spicy and refreshing with the combination of cucumber-yogurt sauce.
- Great as a vegetarian dish or as a side dish for meat lovers.
User Comments:
- "The flavors were amazing! The cucumber-yogurt sauce was a great addition." - John Doe, New York
- "I love how crispy the falafel was. The recipe was easy to follow and the outcome was impressive." - Jane Smith, California
- "A perfect balance of flavors. The chickpea mixture was delicious and the sauce was refreshing." - Michael Johnson, Texas
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Soaking the chickpeas is crucial for getting the best results. Make sure to soak them for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more cumin or chili powder for a spicier flavor.
- For a healthier option, use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
