Ingredients

400g frozen peas

400g chickpeas, drained

3 tbsp flour, plus a little for dusting

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2 tsp cumin seeds

2 tbsp smooth peanut butter or tahini

small bunch parsley, chopped

small bunch mint, chopped

zest and juice of 1 lemon

200g couscous

3 tbsp olive oil

4 large tomatoes, chopped

100ml natural yogurt

Instructions

Step 1: Defrost the peas by running them under hot water in a colander. Drain well, then place half of them into a food processor along with the chickpeas, flour, crushed garlic, cumin seeds, peanut butter or tahini, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and seasoning.

Step 2: Blend the ingredients into a smooth paste, adding a splash of water if the mixture is too crumbly. With wet hands, shape the mixture into 8 patties. Dust each patty lightly with flour and place them on a plate. Chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Boil water and place the couscous in a large bowl. Season and pour just enough boiling water over it to cover. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the water.

Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan. Fry the falafels for 2-3 minutes on each side until crisp and golden. You may need to cook them in batches; keep the cooked ones warm in a low oven if needed.

Step 5: To the couscous, add the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, chopped mint, tomatoes, and the remaining peas. Toss gently to combine.

Step 6: Serve the warm falafels alongside the minty couscous salad, topped with a dollop of natural yogurt.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free option, use tahini instead of peanut butter.

To make the falafels gluten-free, substitute the plain flour with chickpea flour.

Adding a pinch of chili flakes to the falafel mix can give a nice subtle heat.

If you prefer baking, cook the falafels at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Use fresh herbs generously in the couscous for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used when in season. Blanch them briefly in boiling water before using to soften them.

What can I use if I don’t have a food processor?

You can mash the ingredients by hand with a fork or potato masher, but it will take more effort to achieve a smooth mixture. Finely chopping the ingredients first can help.