Name: Golden Crispy Falafel: 7 Secrets to Middle Eastern Bliss
Prep time: 24 h
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 24 h 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 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; 1 tablespoon olive oil for air frying, or 4 to 6 cups frying oil for deep-frying

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its delightful crunch and rich flavors. These golden-brown falafel bites deliver an explosion of Middle Eastern flavors in every crunchy mouthful. Whether enjoyed in a pita, as part of a mezze platter, or on their own, falafel offers a satisfying and nutritious meal option. Let’s dive into how to prepare this classic dish that has captured the hearts of many around the globe!

Why You’ll Love This Falafel

This falafel recipe is not just about taste; it’s about experience. First, you’ll enjoy the crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful interior—perfectly seasoned with spices. Second, they are made from wholesome ingredients, making them a great option for anyone looking for vegan patties or chickpea fritters. Third, these are gluten-free falafel alternatives, making them accessible to various dietary needs. Additionally, they can be prepared in under 40 minutes once the chickpeas are soaked. You’ll love how easy it is to make them at home, ensuring freshness and flavor. Lastly, falafel is a versatile dish that can be paired with various toppings, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Falafel

Gather these items:

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
1 tablespoon olive oil for air frying, or 4 to 6 cups frying oil for deep-frying

How to Make Falafel Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak the dried chickpeas in a large bowl with water for 18-24 hours until they’ve doubled in size. They should break apart easily when pressed but still be firm. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Process the soaked chickpeas in a food processor until coarsely ground—I find 8-10 pulses achieves that perfect texture where it’s broken down but not pasty.
Step 3: Add the herbs, onion, garlic, spices, salt, and pepper to the processor. Pulse another 10-12 times until everything is well combined but still slightly chunky. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but maintain visible specks of herbs.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and sprinkle in the baking powder. Fold it in gently with a spatula until fully incorporated, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Shape the mixture into balls or patties about 2 inches in diameter (about 2 tablespoons each). Press firmly between your palms to ensure they hold together.
Step 6: Cook your falafel using one of two methods: For air frying, brush with olive oil and cook at 380°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until deep golden brown.
Step 7: Drain fried falafel on paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still hot. Air-fried falafel can be transferred directly to a serving plate.
Step 8: Serve immediately while still crispy, with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce for the authentic experience!

Pro Tips for the Best Falafel

Keep these in mind:

Chill the mixture before frying to help it hold its shape.
Use a food processor instead of a blender to maintain the right texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or turmeric.
Testing one falafel in the oil before cooking the whole batch can help you adjust seasoning.

Best Ways to Serve Falafel

There are countless ways to enjoy falafel:

Serve in a pita with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.
Pair with a side of hummus and tabbouleh for a delicious mezze platter.
Top with your favorite sauces and drizzle with yogurt for a fusion twist.

How to Store and Reheat Falafel

To keep your falafel fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. This is a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delicious spiced chickpea balls throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Falafel

What’s the secret to perfect Falafel?

The secret lies in the soaking process of the chickpeas. They need to be soaked long enough to achieve the right texture, which helps in forming crispy falafel.

Can I make Falafel ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Shape the falafel balls right before cooking for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Falafel?

Avoid over-processing the chickpea mixture, as this can make the falafel dense. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crisp.

Variations of Falafel You Can Try

Here are some fun variations:

Try adding beetroot to the mixture for a vibrant color and flavor.
Switch out chickpeas for fava beans for a traditional Egyptian twist.
Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavor profiles.
Make a gluten-free version using chickpea flour instead of breadcrumbs for binding.

Golden Crispy Falafel: 7 Secrets to Middle Eastern Bliss - Falafel - main visual representation

Incredible homemade falafel served with fresh vegetables

For more delicious recipes, check out our small batch apple pumpkin muffins or crumbl caramel apple cookies.

Golden Crispy Falafel: 7 Secrets to Middle Eastern Bliss - Falafel - additional detail

To learn more about the health benefits of chickpeas, visit Healthline.