Egyptian Ta’ameya

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EGYPTIAN TA'AMEYA | THE ORIGINAL FALAFEL

Yield 4

Prep time

15 Min

Cook time

10 Min

Inactive time

24 Hour

Total time

24 H & 25 M

Ta'ameya, also known as Egyptian falafel, is a delicious and traditional vegan dish made from split fava beans, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. This crispy fried delight has a vibrant green center that’s soft and fluffy, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Paired with Egyptian salad, tahini sauce, and pita bread, ta'ameya is a flavorful, satisfying dish that showcases the rich taste of Egypt’s culinary heritage. It’s not only vegan but also packed with protein, making it a wholesome, plant-based treat.

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Ingredients

For Soaking:

• 1 cup dry split fava beans
• water

For the Mixture:

• 1 bunch fresh cilantro
• 1 yellow onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• ground coriander
• ground cumin
• sea salt
• black pepper
• baking soda, just a pinch

For Frying:

• canola oil

Instructions

Prepare the Fava Beans:

1. Place 1 cup dry split fava beans in a large bowl and cover them with water.
2. Soak the fava beans for 24 hours.
3. Drain the soaking water and rinse the beans thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Blend the Mixture:

1. Add the soaked split fava beans to a food processor.
2. Add 1 bunch fresh cilantro, 1 yellow onion, and 4 garlic cloves.
3. Season with ground coriander, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Blend until the mixture forms a thick, grain-like paste.
5. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to ensure an even consistency.

Shape the Ta

1. Mix a pinch of baking soda into the ta'ameya mixture just before frying.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands or an ice cream scoop.
3. Heat canola oil for deep frying.
4. Fry the ta'ameya for a few minutes, or until deep brown on the outside.
5. Avoid overcrowding the oil to prevent the ta'ameya from falling apart.
6. Transfer the fried ta'ameya to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve:

1. Serve Egyptian ta'ameya hot and fresh out of the oil.
2. Pair it with Egyptian salad, tahini sauce, pita bread or baladi bread, and ful mudammas.

Notes

Ta'ameya History:

Ta'ameya is one of Egypt's most beloved street foods and is widely considered to have originated in Egypt. Unlike many versions of falafel found throughout the Middle East, traditional Egyptian ta'ameya is made with split fava beans rather than chickpeas. This gives it a distinct flavor, texture, and the vibrant green interior that comes from the generous use of fresh herbs.

As the dish spread to neighboring regions, local cooks adapted the recipe by using chickpeas or a combination of chickpeas and fava beans. Over time, these variations became known as "falafel," a name that is now recognized around the world. While the different styles share a common heritage, Egyptian ta'ameya remains unique and continues to be a staple of Egyptian cuisine.

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