Chickpea meatballs with salmon

Chickpea and smoked salmon fritters – a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I present to you an enticing recipe for chickpea fritters, a delicious variation inspired by Eastern culinary traditions, but with a personal touch – smoked salmon! This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, ideal for a healthy meal. Whether you are vegetarian or looking to try something new, chickpea fritters with salmon will bring an explosion of flavors to your table.

# A brief story about chickpea fritters

Chickpea fritters, or falafel as they are known in many cultures, are a staple food in many regions of the world. These flavorful balls, fried or baked, are often enjoyed in wraps alongside fresh salads, pickles, and delicious sauces. In my recipe, I decided to add smoked salmon, which brings an unmistakable texture and flavor, transforming these fritters into a true delight.

Ingredients needed

For the fritters
- 250 g dried chickpeas
- 100 g smoked salmon, diced
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bunch of young garlic
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying the fritters
- 3-4 tablespoons of flour + 1 teaspoon cumin for coating the fritters

For serving
- Salad (e.g. lamb's lettuce)
- 1 zucchini

For the sauce
- 300 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Finely chopped parsley leaves
- Finely chopped mint leaves
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon tahini paste
- 2-3 pinches smoked paprika
- Lemon slices for serving

Steps for preparation

Step 1: Preparing the chickpeas
Start by preparing the chickpeas. Soak them in water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda overnight. This step is essential as it helps with the digestion of the chickpeas and reduces their cooking time.

Step 2: Boiling the chickpeas
After the chickpeas have swollen, rinse them well in several waters to remove the baking soda. Then, boil them in boiling water until they become soft but not completely mashed. Allow them to cool.

Step 3: Preparing the mixture
In a food processor, add the cooked and cooled chickpeas along with the fresh parsley. Pulse the ingredients until you obtain a coarse paste. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

Step 4: Adding flavors
Add the finely chopped green onions and young garlic, crushed cumin and coriander seeds, salt, freshly ground pepper, and the eggs to the bowl. Mix well with your hands to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Incorporating the salmon
Fold the diced smoked salmon into the fritter mixture. Taste and season to your liking. Finally, add turmeric and mix again. Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This step helps firm up the mixture and makes it easier to form the fritters.

Step 6: Shaping the fritters
Wet your hands with water and form small balls from the chickpea mixture. Mix a few tablespoons of flour with crushed cumin seeds and coat the fritters in this mixture.

Step 7: Frying the fritters
Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the fritters until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Preparing the zucchini
Slice the zucchini, sprinkle with a little salt, and fry them on a grill pan or grill until tender and lightly browned.

Step 9: Preparing the sauce
For the sauce, mix the yogurt with the parsley, mint, salt, pepper, tahini paste, and olive oil. Finally, add the smoked paprika and mix again. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Serving
On a large plate, add a handful of salad (e.g. lamb's lettuce), over which place 1-2 tablespoons of sauce. Arrange the fritters and zucchini slices around. Drizzle everything with lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Serve with warm pita or toasted bread.

Helpful tips
1. Finding the perfect chickpeas: Buy high-quality chickpeas, as this will influence the final texture of the fritters.
2. Trying variations: You can replace smoked salmon with tuna or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
3. Reducing calories: You can bake the fritters instead of frying for a healthier option.
4. Creative serving: Try adding avocado or sun-dried tomatoes to the yogurt sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional information
Chickpea fritters with salmon provide an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, contributing to a balanced diet. They are filling and can be a healthy alternative to red meat.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, but make sure to rinse and drain them well before use.
- How can I store the fritters for the next day? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and before serving, warm them slightly in the oven or on a skillet to restore their crispy texture.

These chickpea fritters with smoked salmon are not only a healthy choice but also a delight for the taste buds. I invite you to try them and personalize them according to your preferences. Bon appétit!