Golden, crispy, and bursting with herbs and spices, Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern street food that’s as satisfying as it is versatile. Whether you’re making falafel wraps, salads, or a snack on its own, these little chickpea patties are packed with flavor and plant-based protein. With this easy recipe, you can skip the takeout and enjoy homemade falafel that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Ready to dive into some falafel goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for Perfect Falafel
For falafel that’s crispy, flavorful, and packed with herbs, here’s the essential list of ingredients.
For the Falafel: Herbaceous, Crispy, and Delicious
- 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight – The key to authentic falafel texture.
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped – For a savory bite.
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Complements the parsley for a vibrant taste.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – Warm and earthy.
- 1 tsp ground coriander – Adds a fresh, citrusy note.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper – For a bit of heat.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps create a light, fluffy texture.
- 3-4 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour) – Binds the mixture for easy shaping.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil – For frying until golden and crispy.
Optional Sauces and Toppings
- Tahini sauce or hummus – For a creamy dip.
- Fresh pita bread or wraps – Perfect for making falafel sandwiches.
- Chopped cucumber, tomato, and lettuce – Fresh and crunchy toppings.
Equipment Needed: Tools for Perfectly Crispy Falafel
Making falafel at home is easy with just a few basic tools.
- Food processor – To blend the ingredients into a coarse mixture.
- Mixing bowl – For combining and resting the falafel mixture.
- Deep skillet or pot – For frying.
- Slotted spoon – For safely removing falafel from hot oil.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Falafel
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make falafel that’s golden, crispy, and packed with fresh flavor.
- Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas well and pat them dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt. Pulse until you get a coarse, crumbly mixture. Avoid over-processing, as you want some texture in the falafel.
- Add the Baking Powder and Flour: Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Stir in the baking powder and flour, adding just enough to bind the mixture together. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help it hold together.
- Shape the Falafel: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
- Heat the Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. To test if it’s ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Fry the Falafel: Carefully add the falafel balls in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm falafel with pita bread, tahini sauce, hummus, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy this delicious, homemade falafel!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Crispy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Sharing
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for these delicious falafel:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: Makes about 18-20 falafel
Nutritional Information (Per Falafel Ball)
Calories: ~70 | Protein: 2g | Carbs: 7g | Fat: 3g
Tips and Variations: Make This Falafel Your Own
Falafel is endlessly customizable! Here are some tips and variations to make it exactly how you like.
- Baked Option: Place the falafel on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Spicy Falafel: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped green chili for a spicy kick.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Roll the falafel balls in sesame seeds before frying for an extra layer of crunch.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
Presentation Tips: Serve Falafel Like a Pro
Serve falafel in a shallow bowl or platter with a side of hummus or tahini sauce. Arrange fresh pita, chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of parsley for a vibrant, colorful presentation. Perfect for family-style sharing!
Falafel FAQs: Your Questions Answered
New to making falafel? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results every time.
- Can I use canned chickpeas? It’s best to use dried chickpeas, as canned chickpeas create a mushy texture. Soak the dried chickpeas overnight for the best results.
- How do I prevent falafel from falling apart? Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet. Adding a bit of flour and chilling the mixture helps it hold together.
- Can I freeze falafel? Yes! Shape the falafel and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake straight from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Savor the Crispy, Herbaceous Goodness of Homemade Falafel
This Falafel recipe is everything you love about this classic dish—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for stuffing into pita bread, serving with salad, or enjoying as a snack, homemade falafel is a delicious, nutritious addition to your table. So grab your ingredients, blend up that herb-packed mixture, and enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean delight. Happy cooking!
