Tuna and Chickpea Patties

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Frying pan or skillet
• Spatula
• Plate lined with paper towel

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Ingredients

Patty Mixture

• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (185 g / 6.5 oz) tuna in water or oil, well drained
• 1 small onion, very finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or coriander, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg
• 3–5 tablespoons breadcrumbs (as needed)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar

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For Cooking

• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or neutral cooking oil

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Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. Place the drained chickpeas into a large mixing bowl.
2. Using a fork or potato masher, mash them until:
   • Mostly broken down
   • Some small chunks remain for texture

Do not purée completely. The mixture should be coarse and slightly chunky.

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Step 2: Add Tuna and Flavorings

1. Flake the drained tuna with a fork.
2. Add the tuna to the mashed chickpeas.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.
4. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the lemon juice.

Mix gently until evenly combined.

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Step 3: Bind the Mixture

1. Add the egg to the bowl.
2. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes cohesive.
3. Add breadcrumbs gradually, starting with 3 tablespoons.

The final mixture should:

• Hold together when pressed
• Not feel wet or sticky
• Not be dry or crumbly

Add more breadcrumbs only if necessary.

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Step 4: Shape the Patties

1. Divide the mixture evenly.
2. Shape into round patties about:
   • 7–8 cm (3 inches) wide
   • 1.5–2 cm (½–¾ inch) thick

Place shaped patties on a plate and let them rest for 10 minutes. This helps them firm up before cooking.

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Step 5: Cook the Patties

1. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, place patties into the pan without crowding.
3. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until:
   • Golden brown
   • Crisp on the outside
   • Heated through
4. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

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Step 6: Serve

Serve the patties hot or warm. They pair well with:

• Yogurt or tahini sauce
• Garlic mayonnaise
• Simple green salad
• Rice or flatbread
• Inside a sandwich or wrap