Homemade Falafel Recipe

Learn how to make flavorful and crispy homemade falafel with this easy recipe. These vegetarian patties are made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, and they are perfect for stuffing into pitas or serving on a plate with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. This Middle Eastern dish is a great option for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried chickpeas
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with water. Allow them to soak overnight. Drain the chickpeas and rinse well.
2. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and baking soda. Process until the mixture resembles a coarse paste.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
5. Form the chickpea mixture into small patties or balls using your hands. Carefully drop them into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Remove the falafel from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the falafel hot, either stuffed into pitas with your choice of toppings or on a plate with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.

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