Chickpea and vegetable meatballs

Chickpea and Vegetable Patties – A Healthy and Satisfying Delicacy

This chickpea and vegetable patties recipe is perfect for those days when you want to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish. Whether you are observing a fast or simply choosing a lighter diet, these patties are an excellent choice. Additionally, they can be served alongside a fresh salad or a flavorful sauce, making them ideal for lunch or dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 400 g cooked chickpeas (preferably fresh, but canned can also be used)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 eggs
- ½ bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, pepper, and ginger powder to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, to adjust consistency)

Recipe history:

Chickpea patties have a long tradition, being prepared in various forms in many cultures. They are often associated with vegetarian or vegan dishes, rich in protein and nutrients, due to the high chickpea content. This ingredient has been used for millennia, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its versatility.

Preparing the Chickpeas:

If you choose to use dried chickpeas, it is essential to hydrate them correctly. Soak the chickpeas in a large bowl of cold water overnight. In the morning, drain the water and rinse the chickpeas with fresh water. Then, boil them in salted water until soft, about 1-1.5 hours. If you prefer to use canned chickpeas, make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

Preparing the Vegetables:

Peel and wash the carrot and potatoes. Use a small grater to grate them, then squeeze them slightly to remove excess water. This step is important to avoid a too-wet mixture.

Making the Patties:

1. In a food processor, add the cooked chickpeas and blend until you get a smooth paste.
2. Add the grated carrot and potato, grated onion, and crushed garlic.
3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and add them to the chickpea mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and ginger powder, then mix the composition well. Taste to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
4. Incorporate the chopped fresh dill. If the mixture seems too soft, you can add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to give it a firmer texture.

Shaping and Baking the Patties:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Prepare a baking tray that you can line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Shape patties from the mixture, ensuring they are of uniform size so they bake evenly. Place them on the tray, leaving some space between them.
4. Bake the patties in the oven for 20-30 minutes, until they are slightly browned and crispy on the outside.

Serving and Suggestions:

These chickpea patties are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. You can also try serving them with a spicy sauce for an extra kick of flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can enjoy them with a portion of hummus.

Tips and Tricks:

- You can make a double batch and freeze the uncooked patties. This way, you always have a healthy snack on hand.
- Instead of dill, you can try other herbs like parsley or basil to change the recipe's flavor.
- If you want to make them spicy, add a little paprika or chili flakes to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:

These patties are rich in fiber and protein due to the chickpeas, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Additionally, the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals, and baking makes them a less fatty option compared to fried patties.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a quick and easy option. Just make sure to rinse them well before use.

2. What can I use instead of dill?
You can use parsley, basil, or even cilantro to add a different flavor.

3. How long can the patties be stored?
These patties can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container or can be frozen for later use.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try chickpea and vegetable patties! It’s a healthy and tasty choice, perfect for any meal. Enjoy!