Discover a delightful plant-based twist on traditional Middle Eastern kofte, packed with flavor and nutrition. These crispy chickpea patties offer a perfect blend of herbs and spices, accompanied by a refreshing mint yogurt dip that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Chickpea Kofte
- 1 can chickpeas, drained (240g/8.5 oz)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the Mint Yogurt Dip
- 150g (1/2 cup) plant-based yogurt (soy or coconut)
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup or agave syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
- Drain and rinse chickpeas
- Mash chickpeas in a large bowl
- Add finely chopped onion and garlic
- Mix in flour, cumin, smoked paprika
- Incorporate lemon juice and chopped parsley
- Season with salt and pepper
- Mix until well combined
- Form and Cook the Kofte
- Shape mixture into small oval or round patties
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet
- Fry kofte for 3-4 minutes on each side
- Cook until golden brown and crispy
- Prepare the Mint Yogurt Dip
- In a small bowl, mix plant-based yogurt
- Add finely chopped mint leaves
- Squeeze in lemon juice
- Season with salt and pepper
- Stir in maple syrup
- Refrigerate while preparing kofte
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 7g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Ensure chickpeas are well-mashed for proper texture
- Use a light hand when forming patties to prevent crumbling
- Let kofte rest for a few minutes after cooking
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and less oil
Variations and Substitutions
- Ingredient Alternatives:
- Use different herbs like cilantro or dill
- Add ground nuts for extra texture
- Experiment with different spice blends
- Dietary Modifications:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour
- Nut-free: Omit any nut additions
- Add nutritional yeast for extra flavor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I bake these kofte instead of frying? A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q2: How do I prevent kofte from falling apart? A: Ensure mixture is well-combined and chilled before cooking.
Q3: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Prepare mixture in advance and refrigerate before cooking.
Q4: What can I serve with these kofte? A: Serve with salad, rice, or in pita bread.
Q5: How long will the mint yogurt dip last? A: Refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store kofte in refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Keep mint yogurt dip separate
- Reheat in a pan or oven to maintain crispiness
- Best enjoyed fresh and warm
Enjoy these delicious vegan chickpea kofte – a perfect blend of flavors and textures!