Falafel + Waffle = Fa-wafel!

Falafel are tasty, protien-packed treats made of ground chick-peas and spices that can be a snack, an appetizer, or even (in sufficient quantity) a meal. They are common to in Middle-Eastern cuisines and are usually deep-fried. I've baked them before for a less-greasy option. Then, last night, I wondered this: what if I made falafel batter and cooked it in my waffle iron? Here is the answer: It works. It works really well! My friends, I give you the Fa-Wafel!

This recipe is (slightly) adapted from the falafel batter found on Bob's Red Mill's website (http://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes_detail.php?rid=1611)

Mix together these dry ingredients:

2 cup chickpea or garbanzo bean flour (sometimes labelled "besan" in Asian markets)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp Parsley Flakes (optional)
1 tsp Cumin, ground
1/2 tsp Coriander, ground
1 tsp Garlic Granules
1/2 tsp Onion Powder

Then stir in:

4tsp Lemon Juice
1 1/4 cup HOT Water
2 Tb Olive Oil 

Let the batter stand for 10 minutes. Near the end of the waiting time, heat up your waffle iron to its hottest setting. When all is ready, liberally spray your waffle iron with cooking spray- olive oil flavor if you've got it! Measure out the recommended amount of batter for your waffle iron and cook for the same time you would usually cook a waffle- it should come out lightly golden and very fragrant!

This amount of batter made 4 6-inch round waffles in my "deep-grid" waffle iron. Your results will vary with the size of your iron!

Serve with your choice of dippers- tahini sauce, chutney... whatever seems good! Enjoy your tasty and protein-packed treat. And enjoy NOT cleaning up a messy frying pan and splatters of oil!