Delicious Falafel Recipe: Crunchy & Flavorful Bites

Name: Falafel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight); 1 cup fresh parsley (packed); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp coriander powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying (enough for deep frying)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

June 2, 2025

Updated:

June 2, 2025

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Falafel is a crunchy, golden-brown delight that bursts with flavor and makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, herby interior—each bite is like a mini explosion of joy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick snack, this falafel recipe is here to save the day.

If you’ve ever found yourself at a food truck or Mediterranean café, you know that falafel can be the star of the show. I remember the first time I tried it; I was convinced these little chickpea wonders were magic. They’re perfect for any occasion—taco night, game day, or even quiet evenings on the couch binge-watching your favorite series. Trust me, once you taste these homemade beauties, you’ll be counting down the minutes until your next batch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This falafel recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making meal prep fun and straightforward

The combination of spices creates an explosion of flavor in every bite
Visually appealing with their golden hue, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or keeping all to yourself

Versatile enough to be served in wraps, salads, or on their own, they cater to all tastes

I still chuckle at my friend’s face when I made this falafel recipe for the first time; he claimed he could eat them every day!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Dried Chickpeas: Soak them overnight for that perfect texture; canned chickpeas just won’t cut it here.
Fresh Parsley: Use vibrant green leaves for a fresh kick; it adds brightness and color.
Onion: Finely chop it for flavor; sweet onions work wonders in enhancing the overall taste.

Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; don’t skimp on this aromatic beauty!
Ground Cumin: A key spice that adds warmth and depth; it’s like a cozy hug in flavor form.
Coriander Powder: Offers a citrusy note; perfect for balancing out the richness of the chickpeas.

Baking Soda: Just a pinch helps with fluffiness; nobody likes dense falafel!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that brings all flavors together; adjust according to your taste.
Oil for Frying: Canola or vegetable oil works best; we want those crispy edges!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

The Soaking Stage: Start by soaking the dried chickpeas in cold water overnight. This step is crucial as it will help achieve that perfect falafel texture.

The Blending Magic: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas before tossing them into your food processor with parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Blend until crumbly but not pureed—remember we want some texture!

The Flavor Infusion: Transfer your mixture into a bowl and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while also making it easier to shape.

The Shaping Game: Using your hands or a scoop (I prefer scooping), form small balls or patties from the mixture. Aim for about 1-2 inches; they should feel sturdy yet soft.

The Frying Fiesta: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot (around 350°F). Gently place your formed falafels in batches—don’t overcrowd! Fry until golden brown on all sides, roughly 3-4 minutes each side.

The Final Touch: Once golden brown and crispy, transfer them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with tahini sauce or in pita bread with fresh veggies!

Enjoy these delightful bites of goodness as they elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary!

You Must Know

This falafel recipe is not just a delightful snack; it’s packed with protein and fiber
The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with a fluffy interior, making it an irresistible treat
You can serve it in wraps, salads, or as part of a mezze platter to impress your guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the perfect falafel, first soak the chickpeas overnight, then grind them with herbs before frying. This ensures they hold together while cooking and get that ideal crunch.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your falafel by adding spices like cumin or coriander. You could also toss in some grated zucchini for extra moisture and flavor without sacrificing texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To get that perfect falafel texture, avoid using canned chickpeas; dried ones are best
Always let the mixture rest before frying for more flavor

Serve with tahini sauce for a delightful contrast that enhances every bite

Making these falafels was a game-changer for me; my friends couldn’t believe I made them from scratch, and they vanished within minutes!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with this falafel recipe?

Serve falafel with pita bread, tahini sauce, or fresh veggies for a delicious meal.

Can I bake instead of fry the falafel?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

How do I know when my falafel is cooked properly?

Falafel should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside when cooked perfectly.

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