Falafel

I was at my local food co-op and bought a big bag of dried chick peas. I'm a big fan of falafel and I thought it was about time for me to make some from scratch. I'm so glad I did! It takes a little time. The chick peas need to soak for hours but it is really very easy and I made up the whole batch and put the falafel patties in the freezer. I can just grab a few any time I want and just like that you have a quick and easy lunch!

Ingredients:
(25 falafel balls)
2 cups of dries chickpeas, soaked in water for 12 hours
Crumbs from 2 slices of white bread
5 cloves of garlic
2 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup chopped parsley
1/2 cup chopped coriander
1/2 small onion
1 spoon of sesame seeds
1 teaspoon cumin spice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt, pepper
Oil for deep frying**

Preparation:
1. Wash the soaked chickpeas and put them in a food processor with the garlic, onion and spices. Grind until you get a rough moist texture. Add a little water if needed.
2. Move the mixture into a large bowl, add the rest of the ingredients and put aside, covered, for 30-60 minutes.
3. Warm the oil - it should be hot, not boiling. Add the baking soda to the mixture and knead a little.
4. Wet your hands and shape little balls (smaller then apricots). Fry until you get a deep brown shade. Serve hot!
**I have also just brushed the patties with oil and baked them in the oven. They don't get as crunchy but are still very good.

Recipe courtesy The Hummus Blog