Falafel

Authentic Egyptian Falafel Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and then deep-fried to perfection. These crispy and flavorful patties are often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.

History

Falafel has a long history dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was made with fava beans. Over time, the recipe evolved and chickpeas became the main ingredient. Today, falafel is enjoyed all over the world as a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) skinless broad fava beans, soaked overnight
0.5 lb (227 g) dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
3 cloves of garlic, crushed
1 large onion, finely chopped
6 large scallions, finely chopped
0.5 hot pepper, finely chopped or ground
1 tbsp baking soda
3 tbsp flour
1 cup finely chopped parsley
1 tsp ground coriander
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
vegetable oil for frying

How to prepare

Drain and rinse the beans using cold water.
Remove the skins from the beans.
Pound or grind the beans, or process them in a food processor until minced to a very fine consistency.
Add the garlic, onions, and peppers, and mix well.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Pound or process the mixture into a paste.
Cover and let it stand for 1.5 hours.
Take about 2 tbsp of the mixture and shape it into patties with a diameter of approximately 1.5 inches.
Allow the patties to set for another 15 minutes.
Fry the patties in vegetable oil until they turn golden brown.
Refer to the tahini sauce recipe for instructions.
The best way to serve is with fresh pita bread, tomato, cucumber, and topped with tahini sauce.

Variations

Use different herbs and spices, such as cilantro, mint, or dill, to change the flavor of the falafel.
Add grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the mixture for added texture and nutrition.
Bake the falafel instead of frying for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight helps to soften them and make them easier to grind.

- Removing the skins from the beans before grinding will result in a smoother texture.

- Adding baking soda to the mixture helps to make the falafel light and fluffy.

- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the falafel to ensure a crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Serve falafel in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini sauce. It can also be served on a platter with hummus, tabbouleh, and pickled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Grinding the beans to a fine paste and allowing the mixture to rest before shaping and frying are key techniques for making perfect falafel.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned chickpeas instead of dried chickpeas, but be sure to drain and rinse them well before using. You can also use canned fava beans instead of dried fava beans.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Presentation Ideas

Serve falafel on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it in a bowl with tahini sauce for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Falafel pairs well with a variety of dishes, including tabbouleh, hummus, baba ganoush, and fattoush salad. It also goes well with yogurt-based sauces and pickled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Falafel is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

Falafel contains gluten from the flour used in the recipe. It may also contain sesame seeds if tahini sauce is used.

Summary

Falafel is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Falafel is a delicious and nutritious dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and then deep-fried to perfection. Serve it in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a dear friend in her cozy kitchen. She had just returned from a trip to the Middle East and was eager to share with me a recipe she had learned for falafel.

As she gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together, I couldn't help but be captivated by the aroma that filled the room. The scent of garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs danced around me, making my mouth water in anticipation. I watched intently as my friend shaped the chickpea mixture into small balls and gently fried them until they were golden brown and crispy.

The moment she placed a falafel ball on my plate and drizzled it with tahini sauce, I knew I was in for a culinary delight. I took a bite and was immediately transported to the bustling streets of the Middle East, where vendors sold these delicious treats to hungry passersby.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make falafel for myself. I begged my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I practiced making falafel every chance I got, tweaking the recipe here and there until I had perfected it to my liking.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews. I have even passed it down to my own children, who now make falafel for their own families. It brings me great joy to see them carrying on this tradition and sharing it with their loved ones.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover the joys of falafel, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together. Whether it's a simple meal shared with friends or a lavish feast with family, food has a way of creating lasting memories and fostering deep connections.

So the next time you find yourself drawn to a new recipe, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know where it may lead you or who you might inspire along the way. And who knows, you just might discover your new favorite dish, like I did with falafel.