Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of Middle Eastern flavors? These Chickpea Fritters with Lemon Tahini Sauce are not just a dish; they’re a culinary adventure waiting to happen! Perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside, these fritters are a healthy and satisfying treat that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a wholesome meal, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow guide and discover how to create these mouthwatering fritters that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g canned chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Water to thin sauce
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water, then set them aside to dry slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, and chopped parsley. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the mixture until it is mostly smooth but still has some texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the mixture is well combined, form it into small patties or fritters, about 1 inch thick and 2-3 inches wide. You should be able to make approximately 8-10 fritters depending on the size.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan to ensure even frying.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chickpea fritters to the skillet. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once everything is ready, serve the chickpea fritters warm with a drizzle of lemon tahini sauce on top. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Middle Eastern chickpea fritters!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chickpea mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just form the fritters right before frying for the best texture.
- Consistency is Key: Make sure not to over-mash the chickpeas; you want a mix that has some texture for a delightful bite. A few chunks add character to your fritters!
- Perfect Frying: Use enough oil to create a shallow layer in your skillet. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without soaking the fritters in oil.
- Keep Warm: If you're frying in batches, keep the cooked fritters warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest.
- Sauce Variations: Feel free to customize the lemon tahini sauce by adding garlic, herbs, or spices to enhance its flavor. A pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the fritters with a side of fresh salad or pita bread for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with pickled vegetables for an extra zing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
