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Tameya

Tameya is the Egyptian Coptic (Christian) name for what's known as falafel throughout the rest of the Middle East. Originating in Egypt and made with broad beans (fava), the mixture sometimes substitutes chickpeas for half the fava. In Israel, where falafel has become the national dish, chickpeas have replaced the broad beans altogether. Start this recipe a day ahead.

Ingredients

  • 360 g 2 cups dried, peeled broad beans (see note) or chickpeas
  • 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
  • 6 green onions finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped coriander
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • Pinch of chilli powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
  • 35 g 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil to deep-fry
  • Tahini sauce and pita bread to serve

Instructions

  1. 1. Soak beans and fenugreek together in water overnight. Drain. Process to a paste in a food processor with onions, herbs, garlic, cumin, chilli, bicarbonate of soda and 2 teaspoons sea salt. Using wet hands, shape tablespoons of mixture into 4cm cakes. Coat lightly with sesame seeds.
  2. 2. Heat 5cm oil in a frying pan over medium heat and cook tameya in batches for 2 minutes each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve with tahini sauce and pita bread.
  3. Notes & tips
  4. Dried, peeled broad beans are available from Middle Eastern and Greek food stores.