Falafel

Falafel is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, golden chickpea patties infused with fresh herbs and warm spices. This easy falafel recipe is versatile and perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a Mediterranean night or simply craving a healthy snack. With its plant-based protein and vibrant flavors, falafel stands out as a delicious option for wraps, bowls, or even as an appetizer for gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe simplifies the process of making falafel so you can enjoy homemade goodness in just 40 minutes.
• Flavorful Herbs and Spices: With fresh parsley, mint, and aromatic spices, these chickpea patties are bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve falafel in wraps, salads, or as a dip with your favorite sauces; the possibilities are endless.
• Nutritious Plant-Based Protein: Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas, this dish is a healthy choice that satisfies.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste, making it easy to create your perfect falafel.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best falafel at home, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large bowl
• Parchment-lined tray
• Air fryer or deep pot for frying

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Crucial for blending ingredients evenly to achieve the perfect texture for your falafel mixture.
• Large bowl: Necessary for soaking chickpeas and mixing all ingredients comfortably without spills.
• Parchment-lined tray: Helps prevent sticking when shaping and resting falafel before cooking.
• Air fryer or deep pot: Offers options for cooking methods; air frying is healthier while deep-frying gives a classic texture.

Ingredients

This easy falafel recipe makes crispy, golden chickpea patties that are packed with fresh herbs, warm spices, and plant-based protein—perfect for wraps, bowls, or your next Mediterranean night.

For the Falafel Mixture

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (measured before soaking)
• 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
• ½ cup mint leaves (or cilantro – optional)
• 1 onion (yellow or white)
• 6 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons coriander (ground)
• 1½ teaspoons cumin (ground)
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or red pepper flakes)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for air frying)
• 4 to 6 cups frying oil (for deep-frying)

How to Make Falafel

Step 1: Soak Chickpeas

1. Place 2 cups dried chickpeas in a large bowl.
2. Cover with water and soak in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours.
3. Drain and rinse before using.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

1. In a food processor, combine:
2. 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
3. ½ cup mint leaves
4. 1 onion
5. 6 cloves garlic
6. 2 teaspoons coriander
7. 1½ teaspoons cumin
8. 1½ teaspoons salt
9. ¼ teaspoon black pepper

10. ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

11. Add soaked chickpeas and 2 teaspoons baking powder.

12. Blend until finely coarse but not smooth.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

1. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes.
2. Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small patties.
3. If too crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour to help bind them together.
4. Place shaped patties on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 4: Cook the Falafel

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spray basket and falafel with olive oil.
3. Air fry in a single layer for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

Oven-Baked Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place falafel on parchment-lined tray; brush with olive oil.
3. Bake for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway if desired until golden brown.

Deep-Fry Method:

1. Heat oil in a deep pot to 340°F (170°C), filling halfway.
2. Fry 3–4 falafels at a time for about 3–4 minutes until evenly browned.
3. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Enjoy these crispy falafels as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Falafel

Falafel is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re enjoying it in a wrap, as part of a bowl, or on its own, there are countless options to elevate your falafel experience.

In a Pita Wrap

• Fill warm pita bread with falafel, fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and drizzle with tahini sauce for a satisfying meal.

As a Salad Topping

• Crumble falafel over mixed greens or grain salads for added texture and protein. Pair with a zesty dressing for a refreshing dish.

On a Mezze Platter

• Serve falafel alongside hummus, baba ganoush, olives, and pita chips for a delightful sharing platter that’s perfect for gatherings.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer various dipping sauces such as tzatziki, tahini, or spicy harissa. This adds flavor and allows guests to customize their bites.

In a Grain Bowl

• Layer falafel with quinoa or couscous, roasted vegetables, and your favorite dressing for a nourishing bowl meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small falafel balls on toothpicks with dipping sauces as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Falafel

Creating the perfect falafel takes some practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve crispy and flavorful patties every time.

• Use dried chickpeas: Soaking dried chickpeas instead of using canned ones ensures your falafel has the right texture—canned chickpeas can make them too mushy.

• Don’t over-blend: Pulse the mixture until just combined. It should be coarse rather than smooth; this will help hold the patties together.

• Let it rest: Allowing the blended mixture to rest for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to shape into patties.

• Check oil temperature: If frying, make sure your oil is hot enough (around 340°F/170°C) before adding the falafel. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs like cilantro or dill along with parsley and mint to create unique flavor profiles.

• Adjust spices: Taste your mixture before frying. You can adjust spices according to preference—add more cumin or cayenne for extra kick!

Best Side Dishes for Falafel

Pairing your falafel with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made from parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur wheat dressed with lemon juice and olive oil—light and refreshing.

2. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in yogurt (or dairy-free alternative) with garlic and herbs provide a cooling contrast to spicy falafel.

3. Hummus: A classic Middle Eastern dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic—perfect for dipping your falafel!

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil add color and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory falafel.

5. Fattoush: A Lebanese salad featuring mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a lemony sumac dressing—a crunchy addition.

6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles balance out the richness of fried falafel while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and spices makes for a hearty base that complements the crispy texture of falafel.

8. Spicy Harissa Sauce: This North African chili paste adds heat and depth when drizzled over either the falafel or accompanying salads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making falafel can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using Canned Chickpeas: Freshly soaked chickpeas yield the best texture. Canned versions can make your falafel mushy.
• Overprocessing the Mixture: Blending too much will turn the mixture into a paste. Aim for a coarse texture for ideal patties.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Failing to let the mixture rest makes it difficult to shape. Allowing 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and improves texture.
• Not Using Enough Herbs: Underseasoning with herbs can lead to bland falafel. Be generous with parsley and mint for vibrant flavor.
• Improper Oil Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can cause soggy or burnt falafel. Use a thermometer to ensure oil is around 340°F (170°C).
• Neglecting to Test a Patty First: Cooking a small test patty helps you adjust seasoning and cooking time for the rest of your batch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Falafel

• Freeze uncooked patties on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• For cooked falafel, store in an airtight container for about 2 months.

Reheating Falafel

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make them softer.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about falafel.

What is Falafel made from?

Falafel is primarily made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, onions, garlic, and warm spices blended together and shaped into patties or balls.

Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas for Falafel?

Yes! While traditional falafel uses chickpeas, you can experiment with fava beans or even mixed beans for different flavors.

How do I ensure my Falafel stays crispy?

To keep your falafel crispy, avoid adding too much moisture during mixing and ensure correct frying temperatures. Air frying also yields crispiness without excess oil.

How long does homemade Falafel last?

Homemade falafel lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored properly.

Can I bake Falafel instead of frying?

Yes! Baking falafel is a healthier option. Just brush with olive oil and bake until golden brown at around 350°F (175°C).

Final Thoughts

This easy falafel recipe delivers deliciously crispy patties packed with flavor. Versatile and customizable, you can enjoy them in wraps, salads, or as appetizers. Feel free to add your favorite spices or serve with dips like tahini or hummus!