Chickpea Tikki

Begin prepping the chickpeas, TVP granules and the teff grains.

1. Cook the chickpeas in advance or use canned chickpeas.
2. Then cook the TVP granules as per the instructions on the packet. I microwaved it in a covered bowl filled with water, for 5 minutes. Squeeze out the excess water and set it aside.
3. Cook the Teff grains as per the packet instructions. I added them to a pan of boiling water and cooked them covered for 15 minutes.

Once all these 3 ingredients are ready, you may begin to form and cook the cutlets. 

1. To a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chickpeas. Mash lightly with a fork or a masher.
2. Add the cooked Teff grains.
3. Add the TVP granules.
4. Add the chopped onions and cilantro.
5. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and green chiles.
6. Add the spices – turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and two tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
7. Mix well until it forms a soft dough.
8. Divide into 8 balls and shape them into tikkis or patties. You can also give them any other shape.[i] *See Notes[/i]
9. Shallow fry them all in oil till they turn golden brown on both sides.
10. Serve with chutney or ketchup!

*Place half a cashew in the center and lightly press it in.

*Coat them in breadcrumbs. Then refrigerate it until it’s time to fry them.

Tips, recommendations and suggestions: 
Feel free to load these cutlets with more veggies like beets, spinach, carrots, potatoes, and peas. If you don’t want to add chickpeas or TVP in this recipe, then substitute them them with any other cooked beans, lentils, or potatoes. For coating the patties, you can also use rawa or semolina instead of breadcrumbs.

Alternative ways to cook them:
You can also deep-fry or air fry them. They can be baked till they turn golden brown and crisp.

How to store them:
The cooked chickpea patties can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, or a skillet before serving. You can also quickly refry them to get back the crispy texture on the outside.
Uncooked patties can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for a couple of months.