Learn to make authentic, crispy homemade falafel. These chickpea fritters are packed with fresh herbs and perfect for stuffing into pita bread with tahini sauce.
Author:Leo Abraham
Prep Time:20 minutes + 30 minutes chilling
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Yield:15-20 falafel
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Middle Eastern
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not a paste.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the flour and baking powder. Mix well until everything is combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the falafel hold their shape.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
Shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Carefully add the falafel to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the falafel from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot.
Notes
For an authentic flavor, ensure your chickpeas are well-drained and rinsed.
Do not over-process the mixture; a slightly coarse texture is desirable for crispy falafel.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop all ingredients by hand and mix them thoroughly.