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How to Make Falafel

Everybody should know how to make a good falafel at home. This authentic falafel recipe will help you to do that!
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 420kcal
Author CookingTheGlobe

Ingredients

For the falafel balls:

  • 1 ¼ cups (250g) dried chickpeas soaked overnight and drained well
  • ½ cup (80g) finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (750ml) sunflower oil, for frying
  • ½ teaspoon sesame seeds, for sprinkling
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

For the tahini sauce:

  • cup (150g) tahini paste
  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the sandwich assembly:

  • Pita bread pockets
  • Tomatoes
  • Cucumber
  • Red onion

Instructions

  • The falafel balls. Add chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro in a food processor. Pulse for 30-40 seconds until it is finely chopped and holds itself together, but is not pasty. Add the spices, baking powder, flour, salt and water. Mix with hands until the mixture is smooth. Cover and leave it in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
  • Heat about 2 ½ inches (6 cm) of oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat to 350°F (180°C).
  • With wet hands, form a patty or a ball using 1 tablespoon of the mixture. Sprinkle the balls with sesame seeds and fry them in batches for about 4 minutes or until well browned. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
  • The tahini sauce. Before starting, stir the tahini paste in its tub. Put the paste into a mixing bowl and add the water, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until you get a thick sauce. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to a week. Before using add a little water to loosen, if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal