Almond Falafel

Almond Falafel Recipe - A Delicious Saudi Arabian Dish

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Almond Falafel is a unique twist on the traditional Middle Eastern falafel, incorporating lean ground lamb, eggplant, and almonds to create a rich, flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore new flavors and textures in their cooking. The combination of spices, vegetables, and nuts makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

History

The traditional falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. Its origins can be traced back to Egypt, and it has become a popular form of street food throughout the Middle East. The Almond Falafel recipe takes inspiration from these traditional flavors but introduces lamb and almonds for a heartier, more nutritious version. This adaptation reflects the evolving nature of culinary traditions, blending old with new to create something uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of lean ground lamb
1 small eggplant (0.75 lb (340 g), diced)
1 tomato, coarsely chopped
1.5 tsp of salt
1 cup of yogurt
0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese
1 large onion
1 clove of minced garlic
2 tbsp of dry red wine
0.5 tsp of cinnamon
1 cup of toasted chopped almonds
3 (8 inches) pita breads, halved

How to prepare

In a Dutch oven, brown the lamb with the onion, eggplant, and garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
Drain off any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato, wine, salt, and cinnamon.
Continue to cook, covered, for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the yogurt, almonds, and cheese.
Spoon 1 cup of the hot lamb mixture into each half of the pita bread.
Serve immediately.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the lamb with an additional 1.5 lb of diced eggplant or a mix of eggplant and zucchini. Chickpeas can also be added for extra protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Almond Falafel, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground lamb to keep the dish lighter and healthier.

- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the mix will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch.

- Be careful not to overcook the eggplant, as it should retain some texture for the best eating experience.

- Draining excess fat after browning the lamb will make the dish less greasy and more enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

Almond Falafel can be served on its own or with a side of mixed greens for a complete meal. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the lamb and vegetables before adding the other ingredients helps to develop a deeper flavor in the dish. Simmering the mixture with the spices allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lamb is not available or preferred, ground beef or turkey can be used as a substitute. Almond slivers can replace chopped almonds for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

The lamb mixture can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to two days before serving. Simply reheat and assemble in pita bread when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Almond Falafel in open pita halves, garnished with additional toasted almonds and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a visually appealing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a refreshing mint lemonade would complement the flavors of the Almond Falafel perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Almond Falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Almond Falafel contains approximately 350 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Almond Falafel recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the eggplant, tomato, and bread. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 30 grams, making it a suitable option for those on moderate carbohydrate diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the lean ground lamb, almonds, and yogurt. These are healthier fats, important for a balanced diet. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Protein is a key component of this dish, with the lean ground lamb and almonds providing a substantial amount. Each serving offers around 25 grams of protein, contributing to muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Almond Falafel is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E from the almonds, calcium from the yogurt and cheese, and various B vitamins from the lamb and vegetables. It's also a good source of iron and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including nuts (almonds), dairy (yogurt and cheese), and gluten (bread). Those with allergies or intolerances should make appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Almond Falafel is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without overindulging.

Summary

Almond Falafel is a delicious, nutritious twist on a traditional Middle Eastern dish. With its rich flavors, healthy ingredients, and versatility, it's sure to become a favorite in any household. Whether you're looking for a new weeknight dinner option or a special dish to share with friends, Almond Falafel is a fantastic choice.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Almond Falafel. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling streets of Cairo, Egypt. I was wandering through a vibrant market, filled with the scent of spices and the sound of vendors calling out their goods. As I browsed through the stalls, I came across a small, unassuming stand where an elderly woman was selling her homemade falafel.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and asked her about her recipe. She smiled warmly and began to tell me about the traditional ingredients she used, including chickpeas, herbs, and spices. But what caught my attention the most was her secret ingredient - almonds. She explained that adding ground almonds to the falafel mixture gave it a unique texture and flavor that set it apart from the rest.

I was immediately captivated by the idea of incorporating almonds into falafel, and I begged the woman to share her recipe with me. She chuckled and agreed, handing me a tattered piece of paper with the handwritten instructions. I thanked her profusely and promised to try it out at home.

Back in my kitchen, I carefully read over the recipe, taking note of the precise measurements and instructions. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work, grinding the almonds into a fine powder and mixing them with the chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices. As I shaped the mixture into small patties and fried them to a golden crisp, the aroma of the falafel filled my kitchen, reminding me of the bustling market in Cairo.

When I finally tasted the almond falafel, I was blown away by the combination of flavors and textures. The almonds added a subtle nuttiness that complemented the savory chickpeas and fragrant herbs perfectly. I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my almond falafel recipe, tweaking the ingredients and proportions to suit my taste. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness and begged me to make it for them again and again. I even entered it into a local cooking competition, where it won first prize and earned me the title of "Falafel Queen."

As I look back on that fateful day in Cairo, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman who shared her recipe with me. Her generosity sparked a passion for cooking in me that has only grown stronger with time. I am proud to carry on the tradition of almond falafel in my family, passing down the recipe to future generations and sharing the love and joy that goes into each crispy, flavorful bite. And to think, it all began with a chance encounter in a bustling market, where the aroma of spices and the sound of laughter filled the air, leading me to discover a culinary treasure that has become a cherished part of my life.