FALAFEL WITH TAHINI AND CILANTRO SAUCES

Steps:

• In a food processor or blender mix together the first 11 ingredients until JUST smooth-a few small pieces is fine.
• Stir in the baking powder and flour mixing well.
• Cover and place in the fridge for 30 minutes.
• (this is included in prep time).
• In the meantime in a food processor or blender combine the tahini, water, lemon juice, garlic, salt and cayenne-pulse to smooth and pour into a squirt bottle if you have one.
• Set aside.
• In a food processor or blender combine the cilantro, garlic, onions, red pepper flakes, peanut oil, vegetable oil, salt, pepper and sugar.
• Puree to smooth and pour into a squirt bottle if you have another one.
• Set aside.
• Shred lettuce, dice tomatoes and wrap pitas in a JUST damp towel and place in the middle of a 250°F oven.
• Heat oil over medium high heat in a heavy skillet-you would only need around 2 inches of oil for this-or in a deep, heavy saucepan.
• Take about 2 T chickpea mixture and form into a ball, then press to form a small patty.
• Repeat until you have 3 or 4 and carefully place in hot oil with a slotted spoon.
• Fry 2 minutes, flip and fry for 2 minutes more.
• You want the falafel nice and golden brown.
• Repeat with remaining falafels.
• Drain on a rack with paper towels or newspaper underneath.
• Slice a warm pita in half, open and fill with lettuce and tomato, then 3 flalafels.
• Squirt in some tahini sauce and cilantro sauce.
• Serve.