Fava Bean Falafel

Directions

1. 1
   If starting with fresh fava beans, remove beans from pod. Fill a medium sized bowl with ice water and set aside. Next, bring a medium sized pot of water to boil. Drop beans in and cook for 30 seconds. Drain water and transfer beans immediately to ice water to cool. After about 5 minutes, remove beans from ice water and peel the outer waxy layer, so the bright green fava bean is revealed. Measure out 1 cup of beans.
2. 2
   If starting with frozen fava beans, simply defrost.
3. 3
   Add 1 cup of fava beans, chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, onion, salt, and cumin to a food processor and pulse until smooth.
4. 4
   Using your hands, roll mixture into balls, about two tablespoons each, until it is used up (makes about 12 falafels).
5. 5
   Fill a heavy bottomed pot with about 3 inches of canola oil. Heat the oil until its 375F (candy thermometer comes in handy here). Drop falafel, 2-3 at a time, into the oil and fry until it turns a nice brown color on the outside, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the falafel to a paper towel lined plate. Repeat until all falafel are cooked.
6. 6
   In a medium sized bowl, mix together yogurt, mint, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
7. 7
   Stuff pita pockets with falafel, cucumbers, onions, greens, and any other accoutrements you desire. Top with mint yogurt sauce.
8. 8
   If you are not planning on eating them right away, let falafel cool and then store in an air tight container for up to a day in the fridge. Let them come to room temperature before serving.