Go Back

Beetroot falafel on toasted pita recipes

Beetroot falafel on a toasted pita is a delicious vegetarian dish.
Print Recipe
beetroot falafel on toasted pita
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 500 grams peeled raw beetroot
  • 2 x 400g tins of chickpeas drained
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red or white onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 Tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 free-range egg
  • 1 Tbsp tahini
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • small bunch approx 10g of coriander/cilantro, stalks on
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • oil for deep-frying
  • half a cup of seasoned flour to dust
  • slaw to serve
  • spicy mayo see above
  • fresh coriander/cilantro leaves
  • micro leaves or other small salad leaves
  • Toasted pita bread

Instructions

  • Grate the beetroot and set it aside.
  • Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan and soften the onion for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and continue to cook for a minute or two. Set aside.
  • In the Breville Whiz Pro food processor, add all the ingredients except a third of the grated beetroot and half a tin of chickpeas. Process until well combined but not overly smooth. Add the chickpeas and pulse a few times until they have just broken up. Add the remaining beetroot and blend for a couple of seconds.
  • Heat sunflower oil in a medium heavy-based pot or deep fat fryer. You want the oil to be at least 10cm deep. I find using a smaller pot is easier as less oil is required.
  • Place the seasoned flour in a flat dish, and using a tablespoon measure, scoop out the falafel mix and drop it onto the flour. Roll these lightly to dust in the flour.
  • Place layers of paper towel on a large tray and have a slotted spoon ready.
  • When the oil has reached 180C / 350F - drop about 10 - 12 balls into the oil and fry for about 3 - 5 minutes until they start going brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the oil as this will reduce the temperature. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the kitchen paper.
  • Brush the pita bread halves lightly with olive oil and toast them on a griddled pan to give them a toasty flavour and crunchy texture.
  • Spread the spicy mayo, add the slaw and garnish and serve.

Notes

Oven-bake the falafel if you prefer a healthier option.
Author: Sam Linsell