Falafel, the ever-popular Middle Eastern dish, has become a global sensation thanks to its delightful crunch and savory flavor profile. Whether enjoyed as a quick street food or a carefully crafted meal, falafel's versatility makes it a favorite among both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Today, we dive into 5 delicious falafel recipes that you simply must try to indulge your palate.
1. Traditional Falafel Patties
Starting with the classic, the traditional falafel patty is made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices like coriander, cumin, and parsley. Here's a simple yet authentic recipe:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
⚠️ Note: Do not use canned chickpeas as they will result in a mushy texture.
Instructions:
- Process the chickpeas, onion, garlic, and herbs in a food processor until finely ground.
- Mix in the seasonings and form into small balls or patties.
- Deep fry at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown.
2. Vegan Herbed Falafel Wrap
For those following a vegan diet, or simply looking for a fresh take on falafel, try this herbed wrap:
Ingredients:
- Your prepared falafel (from the previous recipe or store-bought)
- Whole grain pita or flatbread
- Tahini sauce or hummus
- Sliced cucumber
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Pickled turnips or radishes
- Fresh mixed greens
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh mint and parsley
Instructions:
- Warm the pita or flatbread.
- Spread a layer of tahini or hummus.
- Layer in the falafel, veggies, and herbs.
- Roll up the wrap tightly.
🌱 Note: You can add avocado or dairy-free tzatziki for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Baked Falafel Balls
Want a healthier version of falafel? Baking instead of frying reduces the oil content, offering a guilt-free indulgence:
Ingredients:
- 1 batch of traditional falafel mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Form the falafel mix into balls and brush with olive oil.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until crisp, turning them once for even cooking.
| Method | Frying Temperature | Baking Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried Falafel | 375°F (190°C) | N/A | 5-7 minutes |
| Baked Falafel | N/A | 375°F (190°C) | 20-25 minutes |
4. Spicy Red Lentil Falafel
If you're looking for a twist, these spicy red lentil falafels offer an interesting texture and heat:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils (soaked for 4 hours)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Drain and process lentils with onion and garlic until smooth.
- Add in the spices, herbs, and salt, then form into patties.
- Fry at 375°F (190°C) until crispy.
5. Green Pea Falafel with Garlic Yogurt Dip
For an eco-friendly option with a vibrant color, try these green pea falafels:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried split peas (soaked overnight)
- 1 cup green peas (frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Process the peas, scallions, and mint until you get a coarse mixture.
- Add in spices, shape into falafels.
- Fry or bake as preferred.
Serve with:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh dill, chopped
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients for the dip until well combined.
🔍 Note: Ensure you select quality ingredients to maximize flavor in these recipes.
To wrap up, these 5 delicious falafel recipes not only showcase the versatility of falafel but also highlight how traditional ingredients can be adapted for modern diets and palates. From classic to innovative, each recipe offers a unique taste experience, making falafel a dish worth exploring time and again.
Can you freeze falafel?
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Yes, falafel can be frozen. Flash freeze them on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags. They can last up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven to retain their texture.
How do you make falafel gluten-free?
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Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour like chickpea flour or almond flour. Also, ensure that all spices and other ingredients are gluten-free.
What can you serve with falafel?
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Falafel pairs well with various sides like tahini sauce, hummus, pita bread, salads, pickles, and fresh vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of rice or couscous.
