The Easiest Falafel Recipe You'll Ever Need

5 stars
4.80 (14)
The Easiest Falafel Recipe You'll Ever Need
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 24, 2024

This foolproof, homemade falafel recipe is incredibly simple and requires only a handful of ingredients. Made with a blend of chickpeas, fresh herbs, and flavorful spices, these falafels are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve them in a pita with your favorite toppings or enjoy them as an appetizer with a tangy tahini sauce. Perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, these tasty falafels are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

Directions

  1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, red onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the breadcrumbs. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
  3. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get approximately 12-15 falafel patties.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the falafel patties in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown.
  5. Remove the falafels from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
  6. Serve the falafels in pita bread with your choice of toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. Alternatively, serve them as appetizers with a side of tahini sauce for dipping.
  7. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade falafels!

Interesting Facts

  • Falafel is a popular street food in the Middle East and is often served in pita bread or as part of a mezze spread.
  • Traditionally, falafel is deep-fried, but this recipe uses a shallow fry method for a healthier twist.
  • Chickpeas, the main ingredient in falafel, are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
  • Falafel is believed to have originated in Egypt and is now enjoyed in many countries around the world.