Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing Recipe

Craving a healthier, flavorful twist on falafel? These hearty bean and rice patties, inspired by Moosewood's low-fat favorites, are packed with spices and nestled in warm pita bread with a creamy yogurt-tahini dressing. A fantastic vegetarian meal that's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Customize the spice level to your liking – more cumin and cayenne are always welcome! Prep time excludes brown rice cooking.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Calories 528.7 kcal
Protein 56g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Onions
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • Bell Pepper
  • Cannellini Beans
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Cooked Brown Rice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Pepper
  • Cayenne
  • Nonfat Plain Yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Garlic Clove
  • Pita bread (number according to servings)
  • Carrot
  • Chopped Tomato
  • Cucumber

How to Make Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

  1. Cook 1 cup of brown rice according to package directions. Set aside to cool.
  2. While rice cooks, mash 1 (15-ounce) can of beans (kidney, black, or pinto) with a fork. Leave some texture for a heartier patty.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, mashed beans, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  4. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Form the mixture into 8-10 patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
  8. Meanwhile, whisk together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons tahini, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 clove minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for the dressing.
  9. Warm pita bread according to package directions.
  10. Serve the bean and rice patties in warm pita bread, topped with the creamy yogurt-tahini dressing. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

40 g

Sugar

49g

Fat

6g

Carbs

29g