Authentic Egyptian Ta'amia

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1. 1Step 1: Soak the split fava beans in cold water for at least 8 hours or overnight. After soaking, the fava beans should be soft enough to effortlessly crush with two fingers. Transfer the soaked fava beans to a fine mesh sieve, rinse well under running tap water, then place the sieve over a bowl and let the split fava beans discard any excess water.
2. 2Step 2: Add the split fava beans to the container of a large food processor and run the machine until the split fava beans turn into a fine smooth paste. Add the chopped 2 leeks, 4-5 spring onions, 5 garlic cloves, 2-3 cups mixed parsley, cilantro and dill, 2 teaspoons ground coriander, 2 tablespoons ground cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika, and 1-2 teaspoon(s) harissa paste. Keep processing the batter until all the ingredients are incorporated. In case it is needed, add one spoonful of water at a time, to reach a fine, soft consistency. The final ta'amia batter should be sticky, smooth fine paste. The quantity of aromatic greens may change depending on its potency. Aim at a batter that is vividly green, with a pistachio shade. Taste the batter and adjust the seasoning.
3. 3Step 3: Traditionally, Egyptians incorporate air into ta'amia by using a stand mixer or a hand mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes. You can skip that step and add baking powder instead as indicated in the ingredients.
4. 4Step 4: Shape the ta'amia patties in the size you want, with a thickness that doesn't exceed 1/2 inch. If you make them too thick, you run the risk of having a raw interior and an overcooked, burnt crust. Before you shape the ta'amia, it is recommended to dip your finger in oil or water so you can handle the sticky ta'amia batter. Coat each patty with 2-3 tablespoons sesame and/or coarsely crushed coriander.
5. 5Step 5: Heat the oil to 350° F. Carefully, drop the ta'amia in the 1 cup unflavored frying oil. Don't cram the frying pan. Remove the ta'amia from the oil when it is puffy and all golden. Transfer the fried ta'amia to a tray lined with a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
6. 6Step 6: Serve the ta'amia hot along with French fries, warm pita bread, tahini sauce, and an assortment of pickles.