Ta'meya

Ta'meya

طعمية (tah-MEE-yah)

Egyptian Fava Bean Fritters

Prep Time 50 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 321 kcal

Crispy, herb-packed fritters made from dried fava beans blended with fresh herbs, deep-fried to a gorgeous green interior and golden crust. The original Egyptian falafel that predates all other versions.

Nutrition & Info

320 kcal per serving
Protein 12.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 17.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

food processor deep fryer or heavy pot mixing bowl slotted spoon

Instructions

  1. 1

    Drain the soaked fava beans thoroughly and pat dry. Place them in a food processor and pulse until broken down into a coarse, grainy texture without turning smooth.

  2. 2

    Add parsley, cilantro, dill, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and baking powder to the processor. Pulse until combined but still retaining some texture throughout.

  3. 3

    Transfer the bright green mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for thirty minutes. This resting period helps the mixture firm up for easier shaping.

  4. 4

    Shape the mixture into small flat patties about five centimeters wide. Press each patty into sesame seeds on both sides, coating them generously for extra crunch.

  5. 5

    Heat vegetable oil to 180C in a deep pot. Fry the patties in batches for three to four minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crispy.

  6. 6

    Drain on paper towels and serve immediately tucked into warm baladi bread with tahini sauce, sliced tomatoes, pickled turnips, and fresh arugula leaves.

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike Middle Eastern falafel made from chickpeas, Egyptian ta'meya uses fava beans, giving them a distinctive bright green interior that is unmistakable.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • food processor
  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • mixing bowl
  • slotted spoon

The Story Behind Ta'meya

Ta'meya is believed to be the original falafel, dating back to ancient Egypt where Coptic Christians may have created it as a protein-rich alternative during Lenten fasting. Unlike the chickpea-based falafel found elsewhere in the Middle East, Egyptian ta'meya uses dried fava beans and an abundance of fresh herbs, resulting in a distinctively green interior and lighter texture.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast or street snack 📜 Origins: Ancient Egyptian, Pharaonic era

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