CHICKPEA, CUMIN, AND SPINACH KOFTAS WITH TAHINI DRESSING
Chickpeas can be very bland on their own, but they take on spicy flavors really well. Because of their texture, they make a great substitute for ground beef—in a burger, say, or in these classic koftas. It’s important to let them rest in the fridge so that they hold their shape when you pan-fry them.
Servings
20
Servings
20
Ingredients
FOR THE DRESSING
Instructions
  1. Wash the spinach, then place in a medium-hot oiled pan and stir until wilted. Drain thoroughly, squeezing out any excess water, then finely chop.
  2. Toast the cumin seeds in a dry hot pan for about 1 minute until aromatic and golden, then grind in a mortar with a pestle.
  3. Place the chickpeas, cumin, and spices, along with a good pinch of salt and pepper, in a blender and blend to a fine paste. (If the mixture looks too dry to hold together, add 2–3 tablespoons of water and blend again.) Add the spinach, sprinkle in the flour, and mix well to combine.
  4. Dust your hands with flour, then take a tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into an egg shape. (If this is too tricky, simply roll it into a ball.) Repeat until all the mixture has been used, then place on a plate or baking sheet dusted with flour. Chill for at least 1 hour until you are ready to cook.
  5. Preheat the oven to 250°F.
  6. Heat some oil in a pan and pan-fry the koftas in batches over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden brown on all sides and hot all the way through. Drain after frying, and keep them warm in the oven.
  7. Combine all the dressing ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a little olive oil if you want a looser consistency.
  8. Serve the koftas warm with the dressing on the side.