Mushroom and Halloumi Falafel

Dive into the world of delectable vegetarian cuisine with these savory Mushrooms and Halloumi Falafels. Crafted from a symphony of fresh ingredients, including mushrooms, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, these falafels are a culinary delight that caters to both taste and health. The earthy flavors of mushrooms blend harmoniously with the creaminess of halloumi cheese, creating a delightful balance that appeals to the palate. Whether enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer, a finger food, or a wholesome main course, Mushroom and Halloumi Falafels offer a tantalizing journey into the realm of plant-based gastronomy.

INGREDIENTS:

• 400g button, cup, or flat mushrooms
• 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for cooking
• 1 brown onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tbsp Greek seasoning
• 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained
• 1 bunch of flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
• 150g halloumi, grated
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup dried breadcrumbs (packaged ones)
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1 cup Greek-style yogurt
• Lemon wedges and herbs to serve, optional

PREPARATIONS:

1. Finely chop the mushrooms by hand or using a food processor with a pulse button.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over high heat.
3. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook and stir for 8 minutes until moisture evaporates.
4. Stir in the Greek seasoning and cook for 1 minute. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes and drain excess moisture.
5. Process chickpeas, parsley, halloumi, egg, breadcrumbs, and half the tahini until almost smooth. Add this mixture to the mushrooms, season, and mix well.
6. Roll one tablespoonful of mixture into a ball, then roll lightly in sesame seeds. Place on a tray and repeat to make 30 falafels.
7. Refrigerate falafels for 30 minutes if time permits. Mix the remaining tahini and yogurt, then refrigerate.

YIELD:

• Makes approximately 30 falafels

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Falafels can be shallow or deep-fried based on preference.
• Serve falafels warm or at room temperature with tahini yogurt, lemon wedges, and optional herbs.

TIPS:

• Transform the falafels into a complete meal by shaping 1/4 cupful of the mixture into patties and serving with salad and pita bread.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the falafels according to your taste.

Mushroom and Halloumi Falafels are a testament to the art of plant-based culinary creativity. Through the skillful combination of mushrooms, chickpeas, and halloumi cheese, these falafels deliver a symphony of flavors and textures that delight the senses. Whether enjoyed as a delightful appetizer or the star of a wholesome meal, these falafels showcase the limitless possibilities of vegetarian cuisine. The crispy exterior and tender interior, coupled with the rich creaminess of tahini yogurt, elevate this dish into a culinary masterpiece. With every bite, Mushroom and Halloumi Falafels offer a tantalizing experience that embodies the essence of delicious and nutritious eating.