Ingredients

7 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

1 tablespoon ground cumin

Pinch of cayenne

1 can (15 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 talespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 large egg white

1 teaspoon coarse salt, plus more for seasoning

5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Tzatziki for Fritters, for serving

Preparation

In a medium saute pan, heat 3 tablespoons oil over medium heat. Add onion; cook, stirring, until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add sesame seeds, cumin, and cayenne; cook, stirring, until the sesame seeds have begun to brown lightly and the spices are very fragrant, about 2 minutes; set aside.

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, egg white, salt, and 1 tablespoon oil. Pulse several times to form a semismooth paste. Transfer to a large bowl; stir in onion mixture. Fold in flour until just combined. Using your hands, form batter into 1 1/4-inch patties, each about 1/3 inch thick.

In a 12-inch saute pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-low heat. Cook half the patties, without flattening, until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer patties to a paper-towel-lined plate, and season with salt. Repeat with remaining patties and tablespoon oil. Serve immediately with tzatziki.