Are you craving a delicious and healthy snack? Look no further than this falafel recipe! These crispy, golden balls made from chickpeas and fresh herbs are not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, falafels are a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Serve them with tahini sauce, in a wrap, or on a salad for a delightful meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation process!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 falafel balls, serving 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 falafel balls) contains approximately 200 calories, 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 7g fat, and 8g fiber. This nutritional breakdown is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Soak chickpeas in water overnight, then drain.
- In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
- Pulse until you achieve a coarse mixture.
- Add cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper; blend well.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Form the chickpea mixture into small balls or patties.
- Fry the falafel in hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with tahini sauce or your choice of dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour. You can also substitute chickpeas with fava beans for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs if necessary, though the taste may vary.
Serving and Pairings
Falafel pairs beautifully with pita bread, fresh salads, or a side of hummus. You can also serve them with a tangy tzatziki sauce or a spicy harissa for an added kick.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Falafel can also be frozen before frying; just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking the chickpeas long enough can lead to a dense texture.
- Over-processing the mixture may result in a paste rather than a textured dough.
- Frying at too low a temperature can make falafel greasy.
- Using too much flour can dry out the mixture.
- Not allowing the mixture to chill can cause falafel to fall apart while frying.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Test the oil temperature with a small piece of dough before frying.
- Shape falafel balls uniformly for even cooking.
- Experiment with spices to customize the flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I bake falafel instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake falafel at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. This method is healthier but may result in a less crispy texture.
What can I serve with falafel?
Falafel is versatile and can be served with pita bread, fresh salads, tahini sauce, hummus, or even in a wrap. They are perfect for a Mediterranean platter.
Can I make falafel ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Shape the balls and fry them just before serving for the best taste and texture.
What if my falafel falls apart while frying?
If falafel falls apart, it may be due to too much moisture in the mixture or not enough binding ingredients. Adding a bit more flour can help bind it better.
Are falafels gluten-free?
Traditional falafel is gluten-free, as it is made from chickpeas. However, always check for any added ingredients if using store-bought mixes.
Conclusion
This falafel recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish that can satisfy any craving. With its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, falafel can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a snack or a meal, it’s a dish that everyone will love!
Falafel Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak chickpeas in water overnight, then drain.
- In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
- Pulse until you achieve a coarse mixture.
- Add cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper; blend well.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Form the chickpea mixture into small balls or patties.
- Fry the falafel in hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with tahini sauce or your choice of dipping sauce.
