Falafel Recipe: A Crispy and Flavourful Middle Eastern Delight

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern street food that’s beloved for its crispy exterior and savory, spiced interior. Falafel Recipe Made from ground chickpeas (or fava beans) and a blend of herbs and spices, falafel is not only delicious but also a great source of plant-based protein. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a part of a mezze platter, this recipe will guide you through making homemade falafel that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

– **1 cup dried chickpeas** (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
– **1 small onion**, chopped
– **3 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves**
– **1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves**
– **1 teaspoon ground cumin**
– **1 teaspoon ground coriander**
– **1/2 teaspoon baking powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt** (or to taste)
– **1/2 teaspoon black pepper**
– **1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (optional, for extra heat)
– **2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour** (as needed)
– **Oil** for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

1. **Prepare the Chickpeas**:
– **If using dried chickpeas**: Soak them in plenty of water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
– **If using canned chickpeas**: Drain and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. **Make the Falafel Mixture**:
– In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until you achieve a coarse, grainy texture.
– Add cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pulse again to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

3. **Shape the Falafel**:
– With wet hands or a falafel scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 12-15 pieces.

4. **Fry the Falafel**:
– Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of the falafel mixture; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
– Fry the falafel in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until the falafel is golden brown and crispy on all sides.
– Remove the falafel with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. **Serve:
– Serve the falafel warm with your favorite accompaniments such as pita bread, hummus, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.

6. Enjoy:
– Enjoy your homemade falafel as a delicious and nutritious meal or snack!

 

Tips for Perfect Falafel

– **Soaking Chickpeas**: Ensure the chickpeas are soaked well; this helps in achieving the right texture. Do not use canned chickpeas without draining them thoroughly as they contain excess moisture.
– **Consistent Texture**: The mixture should be coarse but should hold together when shaped. If the mixture is too dry, add a little water; if too wet, add more flour.
– **Cooking Method**: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as fried falafel but are still delicious.

Conclusion

Homemade falafel is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a burst of Middle Eastern flavor with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it in a sandwich, wrap, or as part of a mezze platter, this recipe brings the taste of authentic falafel right to your kitchen. With its crispy exterior and flavorful interior, this falafel recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy the taste of this classic dish and embrace the joy of homemade cooking!
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