Falafel, those little orbs of crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside deliciousness, are a cornerstone of Middle Eastern cuisine. Bursting with fresh herbs and earthy spices, they offer a fantastic vegetarian option for a satisfying meal or a flavorful snack.
This guide will walk you through every step of making perfect falafel at home, from soaking the chickpeas to achieving that coveted golden-brown crunch. Get ready for a culinary adventure that’s as fun as it is delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Falafel:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (about 8 ounces), picked over and rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion (about 1 small onion)
- 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill your pot about 2 inches deep)
Optional Toppings and Sides:
- Pita bread, warmed
- Hummus
- Tahini sauce
- Chopped tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Pickled turnips
- Hot sauce (like harissa)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or blender
- Large bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (optional, for freezing falafel)
- Large skillet or pot
