Vegetable Chickpea Cakes with Herb Yogurt Sauce

This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a refined, restaurant-quality meal. The golden vegetable chickpea cakes on your plate look crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. They sit atop a layer of roasted tomatoes or sautéed vegetables, and are topped with a fine nest-like garnish — likely crispy leeks or fried vermicelli. A smooth swirl of green herb yogurt sauce frames the plate, adding freshness, color, and elegance.

These types of cakes are inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, combining chickpeas, herbs, aromatics, and subtle spices into a hearty, nutritious patty. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a vegetarian showpiece on a tasting menu.

Ingredients

For the Chickpea Cakes:

1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained
½ cup grated carrot
½ cup chopped spinach or parsley
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup breadcrumbs or oat flour
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Herb Yogurt Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt)
1 small handful fresh cilantro
1 small handful fresh parsley
1 garlic clove
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Sautéed Vegetable Base:

½ cup roasted red peppers (or sun-dried tomatoes)
½ cup sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Crispy Garnish:

Thinly shredded leeks OR vermicelli noodles
Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Make the Chickpea Cakes

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with some texture left.

Add grated carrot, chopped spinach or parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Add the egg and breadcrumbs (or oat flour). Stir until the mixture binds — it should be firm enough to shape. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Form into small oval cakes, similar to the shape in your photo.

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the cakes for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden-brown and crisp.

Set aside on a warm plate.

2. Prepare the Herb Yogurt Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, cilantro, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Blend until smooth and pale green.

Chill until ready to plate — this keeps it thick and vibrant.

3. Make the Vegetable Base

Heat olive oil in a small pan. Add roasted peppers, mushrooms, or vegetables of choice. Cook for 3–4 minutes until warmed and slightly caramelized.

Set aside. These will go underneath the chickpea cakes.

4. Prepare the Crispy Garnish

To create that beautiful nest-like topper:

Option 1: Crispy Leeks

Thinly slice the white part of a leek into threads.
Fry in hot oil for 30–60 seconds until golden.
Drain on paper towels.

Option 2: Fried Vermicelli

Break vermicelli noodles into small pieces.
Drop into hot oil — they puff immediately.
Remove quickly and drain.

Both options add height, crunch, and elegance.

5. Assemble the Dish (Restaurant Style)

This is where the plate becomes art.

Spoon the green herb yogurt sauce onto the plate. Use the back of the spoon to make a circular swirl, similar to the stylish arc in your image.
Add a small mound of sautéed vegetables in the center.
Place the chickpea cakes on top of the vegetables, leaning them for height.
Add the crispy garnish on top to create texture and visual appeal.
Sprinkle a few herbs or microgreens for a final pop of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Roasted potatoes
A fresh side salad
Grilled flatbread
Lemon-herb quinoa
A light soup as a starter

It is protein-rich, vegetarian-friendly, and can easily be made vegan.

Tips for the Best Texture

Make sure to drain chickpeas well to avoid a wet mixture.
Do not overmix; the cakes should have some texture.
Sear on medium heat for a perfect golden crust.
Blend the yogurt sauce until silky for smooth plating.

Final Thought

This Vegetable Chickpea Cake Plate with Herb Yogurt Sauce brings together earthy spices, creamy freshness, and artistic presentation. It’s the kind of dish that feels both rustic and refined — simple ingredients elevated through thoughtful cooking and elegant plating. Whether you're creating a gourmet vegetarian entrée or looking to impress guests, this recipe delivers both flavor and beauty on the plate.

Bon Appétit! 🌿✨

Vegetable Chickpea Cakes with Herb Yogurt Sauce & Sautéed Vegetables