HIGH PROTEIN, LOW CARBOHYDRATE VEGAN COMFORT FOOD: FALAFEL

 Fresh falafel is so amazing and its incredible just what you can make from a bag of dried chickpeas. I initially thought it would be a big effort, but they are so easy to make and the perfect go-to convenience food- make up a big batch, put some in the fridge, some in the freezer and you're good to go. It all starts with the humble chickpea

Prepare your dried chickpeas by soaking them in water for 24 hours in a bowl in the fridge

When these are ready, prepare your falafel spice mix. Fry the herbs and spices with around 3 onions properly to get all the flavours out; 

We used:
You are left with gorgeous crunchy on the outside, moist in the centre falafels- you'll be amazed how quick and easy it is!

coriander seeds

cumin (all ground fresh in a pestle and mortar)

turmeric

paprika

baharat seasoning which includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin

fresh ginger

garlic

fresh coriander

juniper berries

pepper mix

low salt vegan stock cube

 If you can use freshly ground up spices it will make a big difference to the flavour. . Spoon out your spice and onion mixture and blend until you get a smooth, slightly wet consistency but not too wet so you can mould shapes with a spoon (or use an ice cream scoop!) Add  more water from the soaked chickpea liquid as you go along to get the desired consistency.  

Shallow fry, we worked out around 6 mins at 180 C or until crisp and brown on the outside. Of course be super super careful and never leave oil unattended!

Serve and enjoy! I hope you've enjoyed this post, what's your go-to quick and easy health food?

LM xxx