Falafel

Directions

1. 1
   Soak chickpeas in hot water until doubled in size - about 2 hours (I often let them soak overnight) Place in a food processor and chop finely.
2. 2
   Add remaining ingredients down through red pepper and process until the mixture is coarsely pureed.
3. 3
   Remove to a bowl and and stir in flour.
4. 4
   With wet hands, form the chickpea mixture into patties.
5. 5
   Oval patties will fit in pita halves best.
6. 6
   I try to make 8 patties.
7. 7
   Let stand for 15 minutes.
8. 8
   While you're waiting, combine sauce ingredients (if making) and set aside.
9. 9
   Pour oil in large skillet and heat.
10. 10
    Saute patties until golden on both sides.
11. 11
    Drain on paper towels if necessary.
12. 12
    To serve: Warm pita breads in oven or microwave.
13. 13
    Cut in half and open the pocket.
14. 14
    Place a falafel patty in each half pita, garnishing with lettuce, tomato, and sauces as desired.
15. 15
    Warning: I tried to make these with canned garbanzos.
16. 16
    They were not very good - the texture was mushy, and the beans lacked the nutty taste that these get from the dried beans.