Mouthwatering Falafel Recipe That's Surprisingly Easy

Falafel, a beloved staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas with a medley of fresh herbs and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to explore new culinary territories, crafting the perfect falafel is a rewarding experience. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, falafel can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from traditional wraps to vibrant salads. This comprehensive guide offers a deep dive into the art of making falafel, exploring different recipes, cooking methods, and serving suggestions to enhance your culinary repertoire.

Explore Authentic Falafel Recipe Variations

Falafel recipes can vary widely, reflecting the regional tastes and preferences of different Middle Eastern cultures. Here are some authentic variations to try.

Classic Chickpea Falafel

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, 1 small onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda, oil for frying.
• Preparation: Soak chickpeas overnight. Drain and blend with all other ingredients until smooth. Form into balls and fry until golden brown.
• Serve with: Warm pita bread, tahini sauce, and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.

Herbed Spinach Falafel

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, 1/2 cup fresh spinach, 1/4 cup fresh dill, 1/4 cup fresh mint, 1 small onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda, oil for frying.
• Preparation: Soak chickpeas overnight. Blend with spinach, herbs, and other ingredients. Shape into patties and fry until crisp.
• Serve with: Yogurt sauce and pickled vegetables.

Spicy Harissa Falafel

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, 1 small onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp harissa paste, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda, oil for frying.
• Preparation: Soak chickpeas overnight. Blend with harissa and other ingredients. Form into balls and fry until golden.
• Serve with: A cooling cucumber yogurt dip and flatbread.

Sweet Potato Falafel

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, 1 cup mashed sweet potato, 1 small onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda, oil for frying.
• Preparation: Soak chickpeas overnight. Combine with sweet potato and other ingredients in a blender. Shape and fry until crispy.

• Serve with: A spicy sriracha sauce and coleslaw.

Crafting Falafel with Dried Chickpeas

Using dried chickpeas is essential for achieving the authentic texture and flavor of falafel. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting falafel with dried chickpeas:

• Soaking: Begin by soaking 1 cup of dried chickpeas in water for at least 12 hours or overnight. This rehydrates the chickpeas, making them easier to blend.
• Blending: Drain the soaked chickpeas and blend with onion, garlic, herbs, and spices until a coarse mixture forms. Ensure the mixture is not overly smooth to maintain texture.
• Shaping: Form the mixture into small balls or patties. Use a falafel scoop or your hands to ensure even sizes for consistent cooking.
• Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the falafel in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Quick Falafel Using Canned Chickpeas

For a faster falafel fix, canned chickpeas offer a convenient alternative. While they may not deliver the same texture as dried chickpeas, they can still produce delicious results with the right preparation.

• Draining: Thoroughly drain and rinse 2 cans of chickpeas to remove excess liquid and salt.
• Mashing: Instead of blending, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher to retain some texture.
• Mixing: Combine the mashed chickpeas with onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Add a binder such as flour or breadcrumbs to help the mixture hold together.
• Cooking: Shape into patties and either fry or bake until golden brown.

Baking vs Frying – Choosing Your Method

Both baking and frying have their merits when it comes to cooking falafel. Here’s how to choose the right method for your needs:

• Frying: Offers the classic crispy texture and rich flavor. Ideal for traditionalists who prioritize authenticity.
• Baking: Provides a healthier alternative with less oil. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake falafel on a greased tray for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Elevate Flavor with Fresh Herbs and Spices

The secret to exceptional falafel lies in the quality and combination of herbs and spices. Here are key tips to enhance flavor:

• Herbs: Use fresh parsley and cilantro for a vibrant, aromatic profile. Mint and dill can add unique twists.
• Spices: Ground cumin and coriander are traditional staples. Experiment with paprika or turmeric for additional depth.
• Balance: Ensure a balanced ratio of herbs to chickpeas to avoid overpowering flavors.

Perfect Pairings to Serve with Falafel

Falafel’s versatility allows it to be paired with a variety of sides and sauces, enhancing the overall dining experience:

• Wraps: Stuff falafel into pita bread with hummus, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for a classic wrap.
• Salads: Add falafel to a bed of mixed greens with olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-olive oil dressing.
• Dips: Serve with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or baba ganoush for dipping enjoyment.

Storage Tips for Leftover Falafel

Proper storage ensures your falafel remains delicious and safe to eat. Follow these tips for storing leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze falafel on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods for Optimal Crispiness

Reheating falafel properly is crucial to restoring its crispy texture. Here are effective methods:

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake falafel on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a quick and effective method.
• Skillet: Lightly oil a skillet and reheat falafel over medium heat, turning occasionally for even crispiness.