Authentic Falafel Recipe: A Middle Eastern Delight

Falafel, a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, is loved for its crispy texture and aromatic, herb-filled flavor. These deliciously spiced fritters are often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, making them a delightful vegetarian meal. This recipe will guide you through creating authentic, homemade falafel that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Ingredients

For the falafel mixture, you’ll need:

    •    1 cup dried chickpeas (do not use canned)   •    1 small onion, roughly chopped   •    2-3 cloves garlic, minced   •    1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped   •    1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped   •    1 teaspoon ground cumin   •    1 teaspoon ground coriander   •    1/2 teaspoon baking powder   •    Salt and black pepper to taste   •    1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)   •    Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

For serving:

    •    Pita bread or flatbreads   •    Fresh vegetables, such as cucumber, tomato, and lettuce   •    Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce   •    Pickles (optional)

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Soak them overnight (or for at least 12 hours) until they’ve doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your falafel. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before using.

Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, add the soaked and drained chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not pureed; you want a slightly coarse texture that holds together. If it’s too coarse, it may fall apart while frying.

Add the cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the mixture. Process again until everything is well combined. The baking powder helps create a light and fluffy texture in the falafel, while the spices add warmth and depth of flavor.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and make the mixture easier to shape.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

Once the mixture has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Using your hands or a falafel scoop, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too crumbly, you can add a tablespoon of water or a bit more baking powder to help it bind.

Step 4: Fry the Falafel

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil—it should sizzle and float to the top within a few seconds. Carefully add the falafel balls to the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Once fried, transfer the falafel to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve the Falafel

Falafel can be enjoyed in various ways. Traditionally, it’s served in pita bread or flatbread with fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce. Here’s how to build a classic falafel wrap:

    1.    Place a few falafel balls inside a warm pita or flatbread.   2.    Add slices of cucumber, tomato, and lettuce for crunch and freshness.   3.    Drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt sauce for a creamy element.   4.    Garnish with extra fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a few pickles for tang.

Falafel is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a wrap, in a salad, or as a standalone snack. The combination of crispy chickpea fritters, fresh vegetables, and rich, creamy sauce makes falafel a delicious and satisfying meal, whether for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. Enjoy the authentic flavors and textures of this beloved Middle Eastern treat right in your own kitchen!