Chickpea Croquettes

Instructions

1. 1
   Place the dry cooked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro into a food processor.
2. 2
   Pulse in short bursts until the ingredients are finely chopped and come together into a moldable paste, keeping some rustic texture rather than turning into a smooth purée.
3. 3
   Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Stir in the ground cumin, chickpea flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands.
4. 4
   Shape the mixture into small, slightly flattened round croquettes or patties.
5. 5
   Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the croquettes for about 4-5 minutes per side until they form a crunchy, beautiful golden crust. (Alternatively, bake at 200°C/400°F for 20 minutes).
6. 6
   Remove from the heat and drain quickly on paper towels.
7. 7
   Arrange the hot croquettes neatly stacked inside a dark serving bowl.
8. 8
   To replicate the visual arrangement, break one croquette in half and place it right in the center to display the textured herbal interior.
9. 9
   Scatter the thin fresh red chili slices over the croquettes before presenting the bowl on a wooden board.