Glorious Mediterranean Falafel Platter with Fresh Veggies and Homemade Tahini Sauce

This dish offers a delightful burst of flavors from the Mediterranean. Falafel, a traditional Middle Eastern food made from ground chickpeas, is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, providing a healthy and delicious meal. Accompanied by fresh vegetables and a creamy homemade tahini sauce, this platter is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy snack.

Ingredients:

For the Falafel:- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight or at least 12 hours)- 1 small onion, finely chopped- 4 cloves garlic, minced- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped- 1 tsp ground cumin- 1 tsp ground coriander- ½ tsp baking powder- Salt and pepper to taste- Vegetable oil for frying

For the Tahini Sauce:- ½ cup tahini- 2 cloves garlic, minced- ¼ cup lemon juice- 2-4 tbsp water (as needed for desired consistency)- Salt to taste

For the Platter:- Fresh lettuce leaves- Sliced cucumber- Diced tomatoes- Sliced red onions- Pickled turnips (optional)- Warm pita bread or flatbread

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture:1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.3. Pulse until the mixture is coarse, not a paste. The mixture should hold together when formed into a ball. If it is too dry, add a bit of water, and if too wet, add a bit of flour.

2. Shape and Fry Falafel:1. Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.3. Fry the falafel balls in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per batch.4. Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Tahini Sauce:1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.2. Gradually add water as needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

4. Assemble the Platter:1. On a large serving platter, arrange lettuce leaves as a bed.2. Add the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, and pickled turnips around the edge.3. Place the warm falafel balls in the center.4. Drizzle with tahini sauce.

5. Serve:Serve the falafel platter with warm pita or flatbread on the side. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious meal that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table!