Hidden Veggie Falafel with Cashew Aioli

Wanting a plant-based lunch box filler or dinner option that packs a nutrient punch?

Look no further than these hidden veggie falafels.

One bowl (or food processor actually), quick baking time and plenty of flavour, these mid-week meal or lunchbox gems are sure to be a hit, especially dipped in the cashew aioli.

Time: 30 mins

Makes: 8-10 medium sized falafel

INGREDIENTS:

Falafel:

• 1 x 400g tin chickpeas
• 1 small zucchini (grated and water pressed out with a tea towel)
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 3 mushrooms, finely diced
• 1/4 cup cauliflower, riced (optional)
• 5 Tbsp ground flaxseed (can use LSA mix)
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• salt and pepper to taste
• water to bring to a rollable consistency, approx 2-3 Tbsp should be sufficient

Aioli:

• 1 cup cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours)
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup filtered water

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees and line a baking tray with baking paper.

2. In a food processor, combine chickpea, grated zucchini and carrot, diced mushrooms and cauliflower (if using). Whiz to combine. You will have to use a spatula to push the mixture down to the blades multiple times.

3. Once combined, add ground flaxseed and spices and mix again.

4. Lastly, add enough water to bring the mixture to a consistency you can roll into balls or press into patties. This should be approximately 2-3 Tbsp.

5. Roll the mixture into balls, or alternatively you can form mini patties. Place on the baking paper and into the oven for 25-30 mins, turning the balls once so that they become golden brown on both sides.

6. While the falafel are cooking, make your aioli. In a high-speed blender, place, soaked cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt and water, then blend on high until cashews are silky smooth. Transfer to a glass jar and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

7. Serve falafel with a side salad and a generous drizzle of aioli.