Experience the vibrant and aromatic flavors of the Middle East right in your own kitchen with this classic homemade falafel recipe! These crispy, golden chickpea fritters are a staple of Middle Eastern street food, bursting with fresh herbs and spices that create a symphony of taste in every bite. Perfect for stuffing into warm pita bread, serving alongside fresh salads, or dipping in creamy tahini sauce, these falafel will quickly become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the magic of street food to your table!
Recipe: Crispy Homemade Falafel
Ingredients:
- 500g Dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Handful of fresh parsley
- 1 Handful of fresh coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 50-75g Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chickpeas:
- Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas in plenty of cold water overnight. The chickpeas will absorb water and double in size.
- Make the Falafel Mixture:
- In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and fresh coriander.
- Avoid over-processing to a paste.
- Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and add the ground cumin, breadcrumbs, and sodium bicarbonate. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- The mixture should hold together when pressed, but if it’s too crumbly, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Shape the Falafel:
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls or flatten them into small patties, depending on your preference.
- Each ball should be about the size of a walnut.
- Fry the Falafel:
- Warm oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
- The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of the falafel mixture sizzles immediately when dropped in.
- Carefully lower the falafel balls or patties into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy all over.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the hot, crispy homemade falafel either nestled in a warm pita with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce, or served alongside a mezze platter featuring hummus, tabbouleh, and pickles.
Conclusion:
These crispy homemade falafel are a delicious and authentic taste of the Middle East, perfect for bringing a touch of street food magic to your kitchen. With their crunchy exterior and flavorful, herb-filled interior, these falafel are sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or as a tasty snack, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich, savory flavor of these homemade falafel, and share the experience with family and friends!