Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel)

A Delicious Egyptian Falafel Recipe

If you're looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Egyptian cuisine, look no further than Ta'ameya, a delightful variation of falafel made primarily from fava beans. Unlike its chickpea counterpart, this dish offers a unique taste and texture that's sure to impress both your family and friends. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, Ta'ameya is not only incredibly tasty but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and method to create this flavorful treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of dry split fava beans: These nutrient-packed legumes should be soaked in water for 24 hours and then drained, making them the star ingredient of your Ta'ameya. This recipe yields four portions, each serving approximately four people, ideal for gatherings or meal prep!

• 1 medium-sized leek: Use both the white and green parts, finely chopped. The leek adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the fava beans beautifully.

• 2 green onions: Chopped, these will add a fresh and slightly peppery taste to the mix.

• A generous bunch of fresh cilantro: Not only does cilantro bring a bright, fresh flavor, but it also enhances the color of the Ta'ameya, making your dish visually appealing.

• Seasonings (per batch): For perfect flavor and texture, each portion is seasoned with:

  • 1 tablespoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander seeds: This spice adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.

  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Added for extra fluffiness, ensuring each piece is light and crispy.

• Avocado oil for frying: Chosen for its high smoke point, avocado oil lends a subtle flavor and crispy finish, making it the perfect choice for frying your Ta'ameya.

Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that your fava beans have been soaked for a full 24 hours - this not only softens them but also makes them easier to blend and digest. Once prepared, drain the beans to get them ready for processing.

2. Blend Everything Together: In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup of the soaked fava beans with the chopped leek, green onions, and cilantro. Blend until the mixture reaches a consistency that’s neither too coarse nor too smooth; a chunky yet cohesive texture works best for lovely bites. If you don’t have a food processor, fear not! A sharp knife and an immersion blender will work just fine to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Season Your Mixture: To ensure that each blob of Ta'ameya is bursting with flavor, season your mixture just before frying. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander, and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to your mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings throughout.

4. Chill or Freeze (Optional): If you're meal prepping or want to save some for later, you can freeze your seasoned mixture. Just shape it into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for long-term storage.

5. Fry to Golden Perfection: When you’re ready to cook, heat a generous amount of avocado oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, frying them for approximately 2 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once fried, let the Ta'ameya drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve your delicious Egyptian falafel warm, accompanied by fresh pita bread, a side of tahini sauce, or a salad for a complete meal.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a plate full of crispy, flavorful Ta'ameya that's sure to delight anyone who tastes it. Not only is this recipe a fun way to engage with new flavors, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to impress guests with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!