Falafel is a Middle Eastern street food that has gained popularity around the world for its delicious flavor and versatility. One of the reasons falafel is so popular is that it is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly option. It is also relatively inexpensive to make, making it a popular choice for those on a budget.

The origins of Falafel are disputed, with some saying it originated in Egypt and others saying it originated in Palestine. However, it is widely accepted that falafel has been a popular food in the Middle East for centuries and has become a symbol of the region’s cuisine.

The full recipe can be found below on the recipe card below

I have been wanting to make this for a while now but never had the chance. When I invited some of my good friends over along with my in-laws, they didn’t want Indian food, so I was confused about what to make. I have already done Thai and Mexican, then I was like why not pita pockets, veg and non-veg. So I made these for the veg option along with shwarma chicken for the non-vegetarians.

Unfortunately, my friends couldn’t make it due to unavoidable circumstances, so we ended up eating the food ourselves. To my surprise, my husband who is not a big Falafel fan enjoyed it and my foodie daughter loved it so much that she ate it for the next two meals. They both made my night and in the end, it was worth the effort. YAY!!!

How to make Falafel

To make this recipe, the beans are soaked in water for several hours or overnight. They are then drained and ground into a paste, along with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are often added to the mixture as well. The mixture is then formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried to crispy perfection.

Falafel is also a great option for those following a plant-based diet, as it is high in protein and fiber. It is also a good source of iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients.

Ways to serve Falafel

One of the best things about falafel is its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways, such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, or on a bed of rice pilaf.

It is often served in pita bread, along with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, tahini sauce or tzatziki sauce.
It can also be served on its own as a snack or appetizer.
Serve it as a veg burger patty on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheese.

Whether served in pita bread or on its own, this Middle Eastern street food is sure to delight your taste buds and is an easy dish to make.

Can Falafel be baked or air fried?

These are traditionally deep-fried, but there are also healthier options available. Baked falafel can be made by shaping the mixture into balls or patties and baking them in the oven until crispy.

Another option is to shape the mixture into balls and place them in the air fryer with a spray of oil. I haven’t tried the baked or air-fried version myself as I want that crunch which is only possible using the traditional frying method.

While falafel is delicious and convenient food, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes. Like any deep-fried food, it can be high in fat and calories if consumed in large quantities. It can be a healthy addition to any diet if eaten in moderation.

Dips that can serve with it: Hummus, Tahini or Tzatziki sauce

Overall, it is a tasty and convenient plant-based option for anyone from vegetarians to non vegetarians. It is also high in protein, and fiber and a good source of iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients. Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal.

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Happy Cooking!!!!