“Exquisite Israeli Vegan Feast: Eggplant Falafel with Cilantro Tahini Sauce”

Allergens

N/A

Ingredients

• 2 medium
• sized eggplants
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked and drained
• 1/2 white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying For the Cilantro Tahini Sauce:
• 1/2 cup tahini paste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture forms a coarse paste.
3. Scoop out a portion of the roasted eggplant rounds and create an indentation in the center. Fill each indentation with a spoonful of the chickpea herb mixture, pressing gently to form patties.
4. In a large frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the falafel stuffed eggplant rounds and fry for 2 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and allow to drain on paper towels.
5. For the cilantro tahini sauce, whisk together tahini paste, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, water, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
6. Plate the falafel stuffed eggplant rounds, drizzle with cilantro tahini sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is truly exceptional. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Notes

This recipe can be prepared gluten-free by ensuring that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.