Falafel where chickpeas replaced the fava beans. It has been speculated, with no concrete evidence, that its history may go back to Pharaonic Egypt. Other theories propose that it came from the Indian subcontinent, where deep-frying was common, and brought west by Arabs or Turks; or that the chickpea-based food came from Yemen. Falafel grew to become a common form of street food or fast food in much of the Middle East. The croquettes are regularly eaten as part of meze. During Ramadan, falafel balls are sometimes eaten as part of the "iftar", the meal that breaks the daily fast after
Picadillo represents the main ingredient to the dish (potato picadillo, ayote picadillo, etc.) and which is chopped and cooked with bell peppers, onions, stock, herbs and spices. It can include some type of protein but that is not essential. It is often served with tortillas or rice. Cuban versions include peppers, onions, garlic, oregano, cumin, tomato sauce, stock, olives, raisins, and on occasion potatoes, and capers, and is usually sauteed in olive oil and white wine, depending on the region. Cuban picadillo is served with black turtle beans and rice. In the Dominican Republic it includes peppers, red onions, garlic, tomato