Falafel Recipe: How to Make Crispy and Flavorful Falafel at Home

Introduction

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices. This plant-based protein-packed dish is not only delicious but also a healthy, vegan-friendly option that’s perfect for wraps, salads, or enjoyed on its own.

In this Falafel Recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make crispy, flavorful falafel right in your own kitchen. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these falafel will have a crispy exterior and a soft, herby interior.

What is Falafel?

Falafel originates from Middle Eastern cuisine, where it has been a staple food for centuries. Traditionally made with ground chickpeas or fava beans, falafel has become popular worldwide as a tasty street food and a versatile dish.

In this Traditional Falafel Recipe, you’ll learn the authentic way to prepare falafel with the perfect balance of herbs, spices, and chickpeas, resulting in a flavorful, crispy bite every time.

Ingredients for Falafel

To make authentic falafel, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup dried chickpeas (never canned)
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh dill (optional), finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp baking powder (for fluffiness)
2-3 tablespoons flour or chickpea flour (optional for binding)
Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying

How to Make Falafel: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soaking the Chickpeas

Start by soaking the dried chickpeas:

Overnight Soak: Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with water. Soak overnight for at least 12 hours. Drain and rinse before using.
Quick Soak Method: If you’re short on time, boil the chickpeas for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour before draining.

Tip: Avoid using canned chickpeas, as they are too wet and will make your falafel mushy.

Step 2: Blending the Ingredients

Add the soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill), garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly coarse.

Tip: You want the mixture to be chunky, not smooth. If it’s too wet, add flour or chickpea flour to adjust the consistency.

Step 3: Shaping and Frying the Falafel

Shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the falafel balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Tips for the Perfect Falafel

Preventing Falafel from Falling Apart: Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet. If needed, add a small amount of flour or chickpea flour to bind the ingredients together.
Balancing Herbs and Spices: The key to great falafel is balancing fresh herbs with spices. Adjust the cumin and coriander to taste for the best flavor.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, or the falafel may absorb too much oil. Also, don’t make the falafel too large, as this can lead to undercooked centers.

Variations of Falafel

Fava Bean Falafel: Substitute fava beans for chickpeas, which is common in Egyptian-style falafel.
Gluten-Free Falafel: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend to keep the falafel gluten-free.
Baked vs. Fried Falafel: While frying gives a traditional crispy texture, baking is a healthier alternative that can still yield crunchy falafel with the right technique.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned chickpeas for falafel?
It’s not recommended, as canned chickpeas are too soft and watery, resulting in mushy falafel.

How do I store leftover falafel?
Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What’s the best way to freeze and reheat falafel?
Freeze uncooked falafel balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer straight from frozen for best results.

Nutritional Information

Falafel is a nutrient-dense food that is rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the herbs and chickpeas. A typical serving of 3-4 falafel balls contains around 200-250 calories.

To make a lower-calorie version, opt for baking instead of frying and use less oil.

Serving Suggestions for Falafel

Falafel can be served in many delicious ways:

Pita bread or wraps: Serve falafel stuffed in pita with lettuce, tomato, and tahini or hummus.
Mezze platter: Pair falafel with hummus, tahini sauce, tabbouleh, and pickled vegetables.
Salads or grain bowls: Top a fresh salad or grain bowl with crispy falafel for a healthy, protein-packed meal.

How to Store and Reheat Falafel

Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked falafel in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked falafel balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness without drying out.

Conclusion

Falafel is a tasty, nutritious, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you prefer it fried or baked, falafel is easy to make at home and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Experiment with different flavors and serving styles to make it your own!

Call to Action

Have you tried making falafel? Share your falafel creations or tips in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow the blog for more Middle Eastern-inspired recipes.

5 FAQs After the Conclusion

How do I make falafel without a food processor?
You can mash the chickpeas by hand with a potato masher and chop the herbs finely, though the texture will be a bit chunkier.
Can I air fry falafel for a healthier option?
Yes, air frying is a great alternative to deep-frying and still results in crispy falafel.
How do I keep falafel from getting dry inside?
Make sure not to overcook them, and add extra herbs or a touch of water if the mixture seems too dry.
Can I make falafel ahead of time and freeze the raw mixture?
Yes, shape the falafel into balls and freeze them before frying or baking. Cook them straight from frozen for convenience.
What can I use if I don’t have chickpea flour?
You can substitute regular flour or use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.