Chickpea Patties with Yogurt Dill Sauce is a wholesome, protein-packed dish perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a light yet filling meal. These chickpea patties are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and flavored with fresh parsley and a hint of spice from red pepper. Paired with a refreshing yogurt dill sauce, they make for a balanced meal that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or in wraps for a light lunch. Not only are they easy to prepare, but chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this recipe a healthy option for both weeknight dinners and meal preps.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Patties:

Chickpeas: 1 cup, cooked (canned chickpeas or dried chickpeas soaked overnight and boiled)
Yolk of an Egg: 3 yolks (for binding)

Red Pepper: 1/4 cup, chopped into small pieces
Chopped Parsley: 1/4 cup
Olive Oil: For frying

Salt and Pepper: As desired

For the Yogurt Sauce:

Greek Yogurt: 1 cup
Dill: 1 tablespoon, chopped

Garlic: 1 clove, finely chopped
Lemon Juice: 2 teaspoons
Salt and Pepper: As desired

Instructions: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Chickpeas

If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them under cold water. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then boil them until tender.
Mash the cooked chickpeas in a large bowl until they form a coarse mixture, leaving some texture for a better bite.

2. Mix the Patty Ingredients

Add the egg yolks to the mashed chickpeas, mixing well to ensure they help bind the mixture.

Toss in the finely chopped red pepper and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when pressed into patties. If it feels too loose, add a little bit of breadcrumbs to help with binding.

3. Form the Patties

Shape the chickpea mixture into patties. You should be able to make about 6-8 small patties depending on the size you prefer.

Press each patty firmly to ensure they won’t fall apart during frying.

4. Cook the Patties

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Transfer the cooked patties onto a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

5. Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Let the sauce chill in the refrigerator while the patties finish cooking.

6. Serve

Serve the chickpea patties hot, drizzled with the yogurt dill sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley or dill for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Tips

Chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium. For an even creamier texture, you can remove the chickpea skins by rubbing them gently between your hands.

Binding: The egg yolk helps bind the patties, but if the mixture feels too loose, you can add breadcrumbs or a spoonful of flour to help hold them together better.
Frying: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to the pan. This ensures a crispy crust. If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cumin, paprika, or coriander for an extra kick of flavor in the patties.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
Freezing: These chickpea patties freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat them directly from frozen by frying or baking until warmed through.
Yogurt Sauce: The yogurt sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 days.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g

Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 250mg

These chickpea patties are packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making them a nutritious and satisfying meal. The Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, while the olive oil provides heart-healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the patties vegan?
- Yes! To make the patties vegan, you can substitute the egg yolks with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), or simply use more mashed chickpeas or breadcrumbs for binding.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
- Absolutely. To bake the patties, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

What can I serve with these patties?
- These chickpea patties pair well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or in wraps or pitas with additional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber.
Can I add other vegetables to the patties?
- Yes, grated carrots or zucchini can be added to the mixture for extra veggies. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the vegetables before mixing them in.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
- Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet and press the patties firmly before frying. If needed, add more breadcrumbs or a spoonful of flour to help bind the mixture.

Conclusion

Chickpea Patties with Yogurt Dill Sauce is a versatile and delicious meal that brings together the best of plant-based proteins and refreshing, tangy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a nutritious dinner, these patties are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. The yogurt dill sauce complements the patties perfectly, offering a cooling, herby balance to the savory patties. Plus, this recipe is highly adaptable—you can adjust the spices, add more vegetables, or even make it vegan to suit your dietary needs. Give it a try, and you’ll find it’s a great addition to your regular meal rotation!