Crispy Fluffy Falafel Your New Weeknight Hero
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a taste of the Middle East, right in your kitchen? These falafel balls are crispy, flavourful, and totally addictive.
Honestly, this is a Falafel Recipe you'll want to make again and again.
Brief Overview
Middle Eastern food is a cultural delight, and these chickpea fritters are a classic for good reason. It's a medium difficulty recipe, taking about 35 minutes excluding soaking time.
This Easy Falafel Recipe makes enough for 4-5 servings, perfect for sharing if you're feeling generous.
Main Benefits
These little falafel balls are packed with plant based protein and fibre, making them a super healthy choice. They're ideal for a quick Falafel Sandwich or part of a mezze platter, and the best part is they're naturally both Vegetarian Dishes and Vegan Dishes .
Plus, whipping up some Homemade Falafel is way easier than you think.
Honestly, is there anything better than biting into a crispy, herby falafel? It's like a little party in your mouth. And this recipe delivers every time.
Let's dive in to the ingredients, shall we?
Ingredients & Equipment: The Falafel Lowdown
So, you wanna make falafel balls ? Ace! It's easier than you think. But, like any good Middle Eastern food , quality ingredients matter.
Trust me, skip the shortcuts and you'll be rewarded. We're aiming for crispy, golden perfection. So let's get the right stuff together for this falafel recipe .
Main Ingredients: The Star Players
Okay, here's what you need. Remember, good ingredients make for good eats.
- 1 cup (175g) dried chickpeas. Crucial . Not canned. Soak 'em overnight!
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Go for the brightest green you can find.
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. If you're not in the "tastes like soap" club.
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour).
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Vegetable oil for frying (2-3 inches deep in your pot).
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life
These spices are non-negotiable, lads. The cumin and coriander combo is what gives falafel its classic Middle Eastern flavour. It just works.
Don't be shy with the salt either. A good falafel sandwich needs a punch of flavour. If you're feeling brave, add a pinch of smoked paprika for a bit of depth.
It's a vegetarian dishes that even the most dedicated carnivores can enjoy!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
No need for fancy gear here. We're making homemade falafel , not performing surgery.
- Food processor.
- Large bowl.
- Deep pot or fryer.
- Slotted spoon or spider.
- Paper towels.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Honestly, if you don't have a food processor, you could try chopping everything super finely by hand. But, honestly? Just borrow one.
It's worth it for the time saved. Plus, it makes the whole process a breeze. This easy falafel recipe is all about making delicious chickpea fritters without the faff.
Now you're ready to get cooking and prepare these Vegan dishes to enjoy by everybody.
Cooking Method: Crispy & Fluffy Falafel
Honestly, who doesn't love a good falafel sandwich ? These little chickpea fritters are just the ticket! Forget boring lunches, we're making homemade falafel that'll blow your mind.
It's easier than you think, even if it feels a bit intimidating at first. We’re going to make some proper Vegetarian Dishes or Vegan Dishes , depending on your preference.
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, let's get organised. It's all about essential mise en place! Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and roughly chop your herbs.
It's like painting. Got your brushes, paints, and canvas? Good. Now you can create a masterpiece. The main thing is to rinse 1 cup (175g) dried chickpeas ! Safety first watch those fingers when chopping!
step-by-step: Falafel Perfection
Here's how to make the easy falafel recipe of your dreams.
- Soak those chickpeas overnight! At least 12 hours . They'll get huge.
- Blitz everything in a food processor: chickpeas, 1 medium yellow onion , 4 cloves garlic , 1 cup parsley , 1/2 cup cilantro , 1/4 cup mint .
- Add 2 tablespoons flour , 1 tablespoon cumin , 1 teaspoon coriander , 1/2 teaspoon baking soda , 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper and 1 teaspoon salt . Mix well.
- Rest the mix in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . It's like letting a good cup of tea brew.
- Shape into balls (about 1-1.5 inches ).
- Heat oil to 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Fry for 3- 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain and serve immediately!
Pro Tips: Falafel Ninja
- Don't use tinned chickpeas! This will make you falafel soggy. You want dried.
- Don't over mix. You want a bit of texture, yeah?
- Get your oil temperature spot on. This helps get them crispy and golden brown.
These tips help make perfect falafel balls every time. It also helps that there are many vegetarian recipes and vegan recipes to create variations, and find new ways to serve your falafel.
You could even add some spice to create your own falafel recipe .
With that, you’re ready to tackle some fantastic Middle Eastern food . Honestly, your falafel sandwich game will never be the same!
Alright, so you've made the best Falafel Recipe of your life, congrats! But what now? Let's talk about taking these chickpea fritters from great to unforgettable .
Recipe Notes
Let's keep these homemade falafel fresh and flavourful. Here are some tips to make your vegan dishes amazing. I honestly, once made a huge batch, and had to learn these tricks real quick! You know?
Serving These Little Beauties: Plating and Presentation
These falafel balls are seriously versatile! Think about the 'gram. Plating matters.
For a simple and authentic feel, nestle them in a warm pita with all the fixings. Falafel sandwich , anyone? Add a side of vibrant chopped salad.
Or, go a bit fancy! Arrange the vegetarian dishes nicely around a bowl of creamy hummus on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika.
Drizzle tahini over the top. Trust me, it looks restaurant worthy.
What to drink? A refreshing mint lemonade is always a winner. Or, if you are feeling fancy, try a Lebanese wine!
Storage Like a Pro: Tips and Tricks
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigerate your easy falafel recipe immediately.
- Refrigeration: Pop leftover falafel balls in an airtight container. They'll happily keep in the fridge for 3-4 days .
- Freezing: Wanna keep them longer? Freeze them. Spread the cooked falafel balls on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months .
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350° F oven for about 10- 15 minutes. Or, pan-fry them in a bit of oil until crispy. Avoid the microwave for that ideal crispiness. Microwaving makes them a bit sad and soggy, tbh.
Remix It: Variations and Swaps
This falafel recipe is super flexible.
- Dietary Tweaks: Need a gluten-free option? No worries! Just swap regular flour for chickpea flour. For a lighter, lower fat version, consider baking instead of frying.
- Seasonal Swaps: Experiment with different herbs! In the summer, try adding some fresh basil. In the winter, a pinch of smoked paprika adds warmth. The flavours of Middle Eastern food are so interesting!
Knowledge is Power: Nutrition Facts
Each serving has roughly 350-400 calories. It contains about 15-20g of protein and 8-10g of fiber. These vegetarian recipes are great sources of protein!
Chickpeas are nutritional powerhouses. They're full of fiber, protein, and iron. It's a great vegan recipe that is actually good for you.
Okay, you're all set! Now get out there and wow your friends with the best falafel balls they've ever tasted. You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my falafel balls fall apart when frying?
Several factors could be at play. Firstly, the mixture might be too wet. Remember, dried chickpeas only, no canned! Secondly, not resting the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes can prevent it from binding properly.
Thirdly, the oil temperature might be too low, causing the falafel to absorb too much oil and disintegrate. Finally, make sure you didn't over process the chickpea mixture; you want some texture.
Can I bake falafel instead of frying? Is it as good?
Yes, you absolutely can bake falafel! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), lightly coat the falafel balls with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. Baked falafel are healthier, but they won't be quite as crispy as their fried counterparts.
Think of it as the difference between oven chips and proper fried chips - both delicious, but one is definitely a treat!
How do I store leftover falafel and how long do they last?
Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or pan-fry them until heated through and crispy. You could also try reheating them in an air-fryer for a healthier, speedier option.
Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Can I make falafel balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prep ahead! The falafel mixture can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, wait until you're ready to cook them before shaping them into balls.
You can also shape the balls and keep them covered in the fridge for a couple of hours before frying just make sure the oil is hot enough when you add them.
What's the secret to really fluffy falafel balls?
The baking soda in this recipe is key to fluffy falafel. It creates air pockets in the falafel as it cooks, resulting in a lighter texture. Also, make sure you don't over process the chickpea mixture; a slightly coarse texture helps keep them light. Just like a good sponge cake it's all about the air!
Are falafel balls healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Falafel can be a healthy and nutritious option, especially when baked. They're a good source of plant based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Chickpeas are packed with vitamins and minerals. However, keep in mind that the calorie and fat content will increase significantly if you fry them.
Be mindful of your portion size, too - even the healthiest foods should be enjoyed in moderation!
Crispy Fluffy Falafel Your New Weeknight Hero
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 8-10g |
