Falafel I

Authentic Egyptian Falafel I Recipe - Flavorful and Nutritious

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 4 minutes per batch | Servings: 6

Introduction

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from dried beans that are seasoned, deep-fried, and enjoyed as a snack or sandwich filling. In this recipe, we will show you how to make delicious falafel patties that are crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside.

History

Falafel has a long history dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was made from fava beans. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chickpeas as well. Today, falafel is enjoyed all over the world and is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ingredients

1 cup of dried garbanzo beans, soaked in water overnight and drained
1 cup of dried shelled fava beans, soaked in water overnight and drained
0.5 cup of finely chopped yellow onion
3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
1 cup of water
0.5 cup of sesame seeds
0.25 cup of garbanzo flour
0.25 cup of fine bulgur
0.25 cup of finely chopped parsley
0.75 tbsp of salt
2 tsp of ground cumin
2 tsp of ground coriander
2 tsp of baking powder
0.5 tsp of cayenne pepper
0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
oil for deep-frying

How to prepare

Pass the drained garbanzo beans and fava beans through the fine blade of a meat grinder or in a food processor.
Combine all the remaining ingredients and let the mixture sit for 1 hour.
Shape the mixture into small patties, approximately 0.33 inch thick and 1.5 inches in diameter.
Alternatively, shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls.
Deep-fry the patties or balls in oil heated to 375°F (191°C) until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside, which should take about 4 minutes.
This recipe yields about 24 patties, enough for 6 sandwiches.
Comments: This dish is highly popular among Arab immigrants.
Falafel, also known as "ta'amia", are patties made from dried beans that are wonderfully seasoned, deep-fried, and commonly enjoyed as a snack.
Traditionally, they are served as a meat substitute and make a delicious sandwich filling.
To assemble a falafel sandwich, fill pita bread with falafel, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, lettuce, and yogurt.
Delicious!

Variations

Add chopped mint or cilantro to the falafel mixture for a fresh flavor.
Use different beans such as black beans or lentils for a unique twist.
Bake the falafel patties instead of frying them for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the beans well before grinding them to ensure a crispy texture.

- Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Fry the falafel in hot oil to achieve a crispy exterior.

- Serve the falafel with tahini sauce or yogurt for a delicious dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the falafel patties in pita bread with sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and yogurt for a delicious sandwich.

Cooking Techniques

Use a meat grinder or food processor to grind the beans to a fine texture.

- Shape the falafel mixture into patties or balls before frying.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chickpea flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute quinoa for bulgur for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry.

- Freeze the uncooked falafel patties for later use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the falafel patties on a platter with tahini sauce and fresh vegetables. - Garnish the falafel sandwiches with a sprinkle of sumac or paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the falafel with a side of tabbouleh salad or hummus for a complete meal.

- Pair the falafel with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the falafel in a toaster oven or air fryer until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of falafel contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Falafel is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour and sesame seeds.

Summary

Falafel is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of proteins and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for a meal or snack.

Summary

Falafel is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful falafel patties that are perfect for a snack or meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. I had never heard of falafel before, but the combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices intrigued me. I was determined to learn how to make it and add it to my repertoire of delicious dishes.

I first came across the recipe for falafel when I was visiting my friend Fatima in Egypt. Fatima was an incredible cook and she graciously invited me into her kitchen to watch her make this traditional Middle Eastern dish. As I watched her carefully measure out the ingredients and skillfully mold the mixture into small balls, I knew I had to learn how to make falafel myself.

Fatima patiently guided me through the process, explaining the importance of soaking the chickpeas overnight to ensure they were soft enough to blend into a smooth paste. She also taught me the significance of adding fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro to give the falafel its vibrant green color and fragrant flavor.

As we fried the falafel until they were golden brown and crispy, the aroma of cumin, coriander, and garlic filled the air. I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one of these savory treats.

When the falafel were ready, Fatima served them to me on a bed of fluffy pita bread with a dollop of creamy tahini sauce and a sprinkle of tangy pickled vegetables. The first bite was a revelation – the crisp exterior gave way to a tender, flavorful interior that was bursting with spices and herbs.

From that moment on, falafel became one of my favorite dishes to make. I would often invite friends and family over to enjoy a homemade falafel feast, complete with all the traditional accompaniments like hummus, tabbouleh, and fresh vegetables.

Over the years, I have experimented with different variations of the classic falafel recipe. I have added ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and even sweet potatoes to create unique and delicious falafel flavors.

One of my proudest moments was when my granddaughter, Sarah, asked me to teach her how to make falafel. I was thrilled to pass on this cherished recipe to the next generation and watch as she carefully measured out the ingredients, blended them together, and shaped the falafel balls with precision.

As Sarah fried the falafel until they were golden and crispy, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. It was a joy to see her enjoy the fruits of her labor as she took her first bite of homemade falafel.

Now, whenever I make falafel, I think back to that day in Fatima's kitchen in Egypt. I am grateful for the generosity and patience she showed me as she taught me how to make this delicious dish.

Falafel has become more than just a recipe to me – it is a connection to my past, a symbol of friendship and cultural exchange, and a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing food with loved ones.

I am forever grateful for the day I first saw the recipe for falafel and for all the people who have taught me how to make it over the years. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart and on my dinner table.