Secret to perfectly crispy falafel? This easy recipe delivers amazing results every time! Learn the simple steps now.
The Ultimate Falafel Recipe Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make!
Falafel is a beloved Mediterranean dish known for its crispy texture and rich, aromatic flavor. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and warm spices, this authentic falafel recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick meal or a satisfying snack. Whether you serve it in a pita or alongside hummus, this falafel recipe guarantees a delicious bite every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Golden – Achieve the perfect crunch on the outside while keeping it moist and flavorful inside.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs for maximum taste.
- Healthy & Protein-Packed – Made with chickpeas, making it a great vegetarian and vegan-friendly option.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and store it for easy meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
Falafel Mixture:
- 1 (16oz) can of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (coriander)
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 1/3 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
For Serving (Optional):
- Pita bread
- Chopped lettuce
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced tomatoes
- Hummus
Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cilantro, parsley, red onion, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, cumin, salt, black pepper, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture reaches a coarse texture. Avoid over-processing, as the mixture should still have some texture.
2. Shape the Falafel
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into small balls or patties. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the falafel hold its shape during frying.
3. Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add 2-4 falafel balls at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your homemade falafel by serving it inside a warm pita pocket with fresh vegetables and hummus. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 71 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Potassium: 234mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 1430 IU
- Vitamin C: 26mg
- Calcium: 164mg
- Iron: 3mg
Pro Tips for the Best Falafel
✔ Use Dry Chickpeas: For extra authenticity, soak dried chickpeas overnight instead of using canned ones. This improves texture and crispiness. ✔ Bake Instead of Frying: For a healthier option, bake falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. ✔ Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick! ✔ Try Different Sauces: Tahini sauce, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt sauce complement falafel beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This homemade falafel recipe is easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a longtime falafel lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out! Enjoy!
