Falafel—those crispy, savory balls of fried chickpeas or fava beans—are a beloved Middle Eastern and Mediterranean street food, and for good reason! They're incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you create perfect falafel every time.
Ingredients You'll Need for Amazing Falafel
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients. The quantities listed below are for approximately 20 falafel balls. Adjust as needed for your desired yield.
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups cooked chickpeas): Soaking and cooking your own chickpeas yields the best results, but canned chickpeas work in a pinch. If using dried, soak them overnight in plenty of water.
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped: Fresh herbs are key to that vibrant falafel flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped: Another essential herb for that authentic taste.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a nice bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have for that pungent aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm, earthy spice that complements the chickpeas perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds another layer of aromatic complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick. Adjust to your spice preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This is a secret ingredient! It helps create a wonderfully light and crispy falafel.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial for great-tasting falafel.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Choose a high-smoke-point oil like canola or vegetable oil.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Falafel
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then boil them until tender (about 60-90 minutes). Drain well. If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly before using.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas (cooked or canned), parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Process the Mixture: Pulse the mixture in the food processor until it's finely chopped but not completely pureed. You want to retain some texture. Be careful not to over-process, or your falafel will be tough.
Step 4: Shape the Falafel: Using your hands, gently shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). You can also flatten them slightly into patties.
Step 5: Fry the Falafel: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the falafel balls to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve: Remove the falafel from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings and accompaniments, such as hummus, tahini sauce, salad, and pita bread.
Tips for the Best Falafel
- Don't over-process the mixture: A slightly chunky texture is ideal for crispy falafel.
- Let the mixture rest: Allowing the falafel mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to handle.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy falafel. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spices to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect falafel flavor profile.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Falafel Ideas
Once you've mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative! Experiment with different herbs and spices, add a pinch of lemon zest, or even incorporate other ingredients like finely chopped vegetables.
Making falafel at home is a rewarding experience. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Now go forth and create some amazing falafel!
