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Easy Authentic Falafel Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 115 reviews

This Easy Authentic Falafel Recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful Middle Eastern classic made from soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. Fried to golden perfection, these falafels are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and can also be baked or air-fried for a healthier alternative. Served best with a tangy lemon tahini dipping sauce, this recipe guarantees authentic texture and taste with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Falafel Mixture

  • 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
  • 1 small red onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 packed cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 packed cup fresh parsley
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 tablespoons chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)

Lemon Tahini Sauce

  • 1/3 cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove, grated
  • 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Soak the Chickpeas: Start by soaking the dried chickpeas in water overnight for at least 12 hours until they triple in size. Drain them thoroughly before proceeding. Avoid using canned chickpeas as they won’t give the right texture.
  2. Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, roughly chopped red onion, garlic cloves, fresh cilantro, parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a coarse, sandy texture but is not a paste. Scrape the sides occasionally to ensure even chopping.
  3. Add Baking Powder and Flour: Sprinkle in the baking powder and chickpea flour. Pulse a few more times to evenly incorporate these ingredients. The mixture should hold together when squeezed gently.
  4. Chill the Mixture: Cover the falafel mixture and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. Chilling firms up the batter, making it easier to shape. If the mixture feels too crumbly after chilling, add an extra tablespoon of flour and mix.
  5. Shape the Falafel: Using your hands or a falafel scoop, form the mixture into balls or small patties of uniform size to ensure even cooking.
  6. Fry Until Golden and Crispy: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the falafel in batches without overcrowding, turning occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  7. Optional Baking or Air Frying: For a lighter option, preheat an air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray falafel with oil. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Alternatively, preheat the oven to 400°F, place falafel on a lined baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
  8. Prepare Lemon Tahini Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, grated garlic, water to thin, and salt until smooth and creamy. Serve alongside the falafel for a bright and rich dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for authentic texture; canned chickpeas are not recommended.
  • Ensure oil temperature is around 350°F to prevent soggy or burnt falafel.
  • Chilling the falafel mixture helps it hold shape better during cooking.
  • You can add extra flour if the mixture is too crumbly after chilling.
  • Falafel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • Serve with pita bread, salad, or in wraps for a complete meal.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spiciness or omit if preferred.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Keywords: falafel, chickpea, Middle Eastern, appetizer, vegetarian, fried falafel, healthy falafel, vegan option, homemade falafel, lemon tahini sauce

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/easy-authentic-falafel-recipe/