To avoid snacking on unhealthy sugary treats and fast food which is sure to bring your energy levels down, why not try these healthy middle eastern inspired snacks, which you can easily make at home.
Falafel
300g dried chickpeas
1 tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
1 small onion, roughly chopped
4 garlic cloves, crushed
Large bunch of coriander roughly chopped (remove stems first)
Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley roughly chopped (remove stems first)
½ tsp baking powder
Soak the chickpeas overnight and then drain.
Put the chickpeas in a food processor with all of the herbs, spices, seasoning, onion and garlic. Run the food processor until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the baking powder.
Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Take the mixture out of the fridge and roll it into small, slightly flattened balls, about the size of your palm.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the falafel. This is usually done in around 5cm of oil, but for a healthier option,try flattening the falafel a little more and shallow frying.
Once cooked, take the falafel out of the pan and drain them on paper towels.
Falafel is a great snack on it’s own or as part of a flat bread sandwich with hummus and salad.
Hummus
200g canned chickpeas
2 tbsp lemon juice or more to taste
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Pinch of salt
100ml tahini
3 tbsp water
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Drain and rinse the chickpeas
Put the chickpeas in a food processor with the lemon juice, garlic, salt, tahini and water and blend until smooth.
If required, add more lemon or salt to taste.
Serve with a drizzling of olive oil.
For a change, why not try adding some roasted red peppers or caramelised onions?
