Falafel is a Middle Eastern street food that has gained popularity around the world for its delicious flavor and versatility. One of the reasons falafel is so popular is because it is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly option. It is also relatively inexpensive to make, making it a popular choice for those on a budget.
The origins of Falafel are disputed, with some saying it originated in Egypt and others saying it originated in Palestine. However, it is widely accepted that falafel has been a popular food in the Middle East for centuries and has become a symbol of the region’s cuisine.
The full recipe can be found below on the recipe card below
I have been wanting to make this for a while now but never had the chance. When I invited some of my good friends over along with my in laws, they didn’t want Indian food, so i was confused on what to make. I have already done Thai and Mexican, then I was like why not pita pockets, veg and non-veg. So I made these for the veg option along with shwarma chicken for the non-vegetarians.
Unfortunately, my friends couldn’t make it due to an unavoidable circumstance, so we ended up eating the food ourselves. To my surprise, my husband who is not a big Falafel fan enjoyed it and my foodie daughter loved it so much that she ate it for the next two meals. They both made my night and at the end it was worth the effort. YAY!!!
How to make Falafel
To make this recipe, the beans are soaked in water for several hours or overnight. They are then drained and ground into a paste, along with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are often added to the mixture as well. The mixture is then formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried to crispy perfection.
Falafel is also a great option for those following a plant-based diet, as it is high in protein and fiber. It is also a good source of iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients.
Ways to serve Falafel
One of the best things about falafel is its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways, such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, or on a bed of rice pilaf.
- It is often served in a pita bread, along with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, tahini sauce or tzatziki sauce.
- It can also be served on its own as a snack or appetizer.
- Serve it as a veg burger patty on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheese.
Whether served in a pita bread or on its own, this Middle Eastern street food is sure to delight your taste buds and is an easy dish to make.
Can Falafel be baked or air fried?
These are traditionally deep-fried, there are also healthier options available. Baked falafel can be made by shaping the mixture into balls or patties and baking them in the oven until crispy.
Another option is to shape the mixture into balls and place them in the air fryer with a spray of oil. I haven’t tried baked or air fried version myself as I want that crunch which is only possible using the traditional frying method.
While falafel is a delicious and convenient food, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes. Like any deep-fried food, it can be high in fat and calories if consumed in large quantities. It can be a healthy addition to any diet if eaten in moderation.
Dips that can served with it: Hummus, Tahini or Tatziki sauce
Overall, it is a tasty and convenient plant-based option for anyone from vegetarians to non vegetarian. It is also high in protein, fiber and a good source of iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Happy Cooking!!!!
Falafel | A Popular Mediterranean Dish
Equipment
- 1 food processor
Ingredients
- 2 Cups dried chickpeas
- 1 yellow or red onion, cubed
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp ground coriander (roasted optional)
- 2 tsp cumin powder, roasted
- ½ tsp red chili powder or to taste
- 3 tbsp chickpea flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1.5 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4-1/2 tsp baking soda
- oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak the chickpeas overnight in hot water so that they are get a bit tender.
- Drain and wash them thoroughly and set aside.
- Wash a cup of parsley and cilantro. Set aside so the water is drained. Cut the stems.
- Once we have all the ingredients ready, add them to the food processor other than baking soda, baking powder and the chickpea flour.
- Process everything using pulse button as you don't want it to be super smooth. You want the consistency to be a bit coarse.
- Now the mixture is ready. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan and keep it on a medium heat.
- As soon the oil is ready, you can add the chickpea flour, baking powder and soda to the mixture. Mix it well.
- Make small balls using your hands or a small ice cream scooper and place it on a plate.
- You want to make sure that the oil is not super hot or on the colder side. Now add a few balls in the oil and fry them until golden brown.
- Repeat the process until you are done.
- Serve it as it is with your choice of hummus or you can make pita pockets.
- Enjoy them hot.
Notes
- If you don't have chickpea flour, you can use the all purpose flour instead.
- You can bake them or air fry them, I haven't tried them myself.
- The mixture can be made ahead of time, just don't add the baking soda, baking powder or salt until ready to fry.
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