Falafel
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas and herbs. It’s not only flavorful but also packed with nutrition, making it a favorite among vegetarians and meat lovers alike. These crispy balls of goodness can be enjoyed in many ways, adding a delightful crunch to any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making falafel at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that is fresher and tastier than store-bought options. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with flavors and spices. Enjoying your homemade falafel means you can share it with friends and family, creating memories over delicious food.
How to Make Falafel
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- Drain the soaked chickpeas and place them in a food processor.
- Add in the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until coarsely ground but not pureed.
- Transfer the mixture into a bowl. Stir in cumin, coriander, cayenne, baking powder, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties using your hands or a falafel scoop.
- Fry falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
Serve warm with pita bread, tahini sauce, and fresh veggies.
How to Serve Falafel
Falafel is versatile and can be served in many ways. You can place it in pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces for a delightful sandwich. It also pairs well with salads, wraps, or as a dip with tahini sauce. Enjoy it with a side of hummus or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store Falafel
If you have leftover falafel, store the cooked balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Tips to Make Falafel
- Soak the chickpeas overnight to ensure they blend well and create the right texture.
- For the perfect crunch, do not over-process the chickpeas; leave some texture!
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. Add more cayenne for extra heat or skip it for a milder flavor.
Variation
You can experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding mint for a fresh twist or use different beans like fava beans for unique flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze falafel?
A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked falafel balls. Just shape them and place them in a freezer bag. Fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!
Q: Is falafel gluten-free?
A: Falafel is gluten-free if you use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour. Always check labels when buying pre-packaged ingredients.
Q: How can I make baked falafel?
A: Instead of frying, place shaped falafel on a baking sheet, brush them with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty falafel recipe with everyone you know!
