Falafel(Chickpea Patties)
Crispy, flavorful falafel made from chickpeas and herbs, perfect for appetizers or sandwiches. Their golden exterior and savory interior appeal to vegetarians and snack lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the drained chickpeas and chopped onion in a bowl.
- Add the chopped parsley, lightly beaten egg, salt, dried hot red peppers, garlic powder, and ground coriander or cumin.
- Whirl the mixture in a blender until well combined.
- Gradually add breadcrumbs until the mixture can be formed into small balls about 1 inch in diameter without sticking to your hands.
- Form the chickpea mixture into small balls, then flatten the patties slightly.
- Fry the patties in deep hot vegetable oil until golden brown on each side.
- Drain the falafel on paper towels.
- Serve individually with toothpicks as hors d'oeuvre or inside pita bread with chopped tomato, cucumber, radish, lettuce, and onion.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using fresh herbs like cilantro instead of parsley. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats or gluten-free bread crumbs. Make sure to adjust the salt based on your taste and the type of chickpeas you use. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted into various Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve falafel hot, either on their own with toothpicks as hors d'oeuvre or tucked inside warm pita bread. Pair with a refreshing salad or tzatziki sauce for dipping. They also complement well with Mediterranean recipes like Spanakopita Spinach-Cheese Pie and can be accompanied by chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, lettuce, and onions for a delicious meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them briefly in a little oil to regain their crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Falafel(Chickpea Patties) contains roughly 102 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make falafel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also form the patties and freeze them for later use. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I bake falafel instead of frying?
Absolutely! To bake falafel, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly brush or spray with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What can I serve with falafel?
Falafel pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with tabbouleh, hummus, or a simple yogurt sauce. You can also create a falafel platter with assorted dips, fresh vegetables, and pita bread for a delightful sharing experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).