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Falafel Recipe

This classic Middle Eastern delicacy features a delightful blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, resulting in perfectly golden, crispy falafel. Naturally vegan, rich in plant protein, and gluten-free, it’s a beloved staple across cultures.
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Course: Entree
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: Falafel Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Soak: 10 hours
Total Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 18

Ingredients

  • 1 pound uncooked dried chickpeas
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons coriander
  • ¾ cup fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 large onion roughly chopped
  • Neutral oil for frying
  • Tahini sauce for serving

Instructions

  • Submerge the chickpeas in ample water within a medium-sized bowl and allow them to soak at room temperature for a minimum of 12 hours or up to 24, during which they will expand significantly. Thoroughly drain and rinse the chickpeas, ensuring maximum dryness; a salad spinner proves useful for this step.
  • Transfer the chickpeas and salt into a food processor bowl and pulse until the mixture reaches a coarse, granular consistency. Introduce the parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Continue blending until a dense, cohesive paste forms, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides. Detach the blade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate the mixture for one hour to allow the batter to firm.
  • Retrieve the batter from the refrigerator, sprinkle the baking powder over the surface, and fold it in gently until uniformly distributed.
  • Prepare one baking sheet with parchment paper and another with a double layer of paper towels.
  • Using a medium spring-loaded scoop or your hands, form approximately 1½ tablespoons of mixture into compact balls and arrange them on the parchment-lined sheet. Repeat the process until all batter is shaped; the falafel may feel slightly loose but will hold together upon frying.
  • Pour one inch of oil into a large, deep-sided skillet and heat over medium flame. When a small bit of batter sizzles upon contact with the oil, carefully lower 10–12 falafel balls into the pan without overcrowding. Fry for 3 to 3½ minutes on each side, or until deep golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the prepared paper-towel-lined sheet. Repeat with remaining falafel.
  • Arrange the cooked falafel on a serving dish and accompany with tahini sauce. Serve while warm.

Notes

Nutrition is estimated based on approximately ½ cup of oil absorption for the full batch.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Freezing Instructions: Cooked falafel may be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze on a baking sheet, then store in freezer bags or containers. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes until crisp. The raw mixture may also be frozen and thawed in the refrigerator before forming and frying or baking.
Sourcing: Dried chickpeas can typically be found in natural food shops, large supermarkets, or stores specializing in Middle Eastern products.
Substitutes: A portion of soaked fava beans can be added, though not recommended as a full replacement. Using solely parsley or solely cilantro is permissible, but both herbs provide the best flavor.
Baking Option: Arrange falafel on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.