Chickpea and rice Balls

Put the rice in a saucepan, add 240 ml (8 fl oz) water and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer very gently for 10–15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the water. Remove from the heat and leave to cool for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF, gas mark 4). Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the onion and fry gently for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until soft. Stir in the garlic and chili, and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the chopped tomatoes.

Put the chickpeas in a bowl and mash with a potato masher until fairly smooth, or purée in a food processor. Add the onion mixture, rice, egg yolk, coriander, paprika, and season to taste. Mix together well. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball.

Place the chickpea and rice balls on a greased baking sheet and bake to desired consistency, maximum 30 minutes or until beginning to brown, turning them over carefully halfway through the cooking. Serve hot or cold in pitta bread