Welcome, Lykkers! Have you ever had the opportunity to try the jewel of Middle Eastern cuisine known as falafel?
The origin of this scrumptious deep-fried ball of goodness can be traced back to Egypt, from where it spread throughout the Middle East and eventually all over the world.
Falafel became so popular that even McDonald's served a "Mcfalafel" on its breakfast menu in Egypt.
How to Make Falafel | Falafel Recipe
Video by The Cooking Foodie
In Egypt, falafel is traditionally made with fava beans, whereas in Jordan, it typically includes a mix of fava beans and chickpeas. It's now taken the world by storm as a must-try vegan street food sensation!
<h3>What is falafel?</h3>
Falafel consists of deep-fried balls or patties made from chickpeas, fava beans, or a blend of both, mixed with fresh herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
They are typically eaten in a pita sandwich with pickles, hot sauce, tahini and vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, cucumber and lettuce. Falafel is also commonly served as a part of a mezzze spread with small plates of hummus, tabbouleh and grape leaves.
<h3>Ingredients</h3>
1. Dried chickpeas or fava beans are recommended—avoid using canned chickpeas.
2. Fresh herbs - Parsley, cilantro and dil.
3. Onion.
4. Garlic.
5. Salt and pepper.
6. Spices - cumin, coriander and cayenne pepper.
7. Baking powder - Provides an airy and fluffy texture.
8. Sesame seeds.
<b>How to make a Falafel?</b>
1. Soak chickpeas for 24 hours, add baking soda to help soften them as they soak. The chickpeas will double in size. After soaking, drain them well.
2. Combine fresh herbs, chickpeas, onion, garlic, and spices in a food processor to make the mixture. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground.
3. Refrigerate at least for 1 hour or overnight.
4. Form balls or patties and add baking powder and sesame seeds.
5. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
And your delicious Falafel is ready to eat!
<h3>How to serve Falafel?</h3>
<b>Middle Eastern style:</b> Falafel is typically served hot in the Middle East with a generous amount of tahini sauce.
<b>As a pita sandwich:</b> Take pita bread, add the falafel and some vegetables like onions and tomatoes. You can also add an egg and a drizzle of tahinni.
<b>Mezze plate:</b> Falafel is served with hummus,toum, or baba ghanoush.
<b>As a side:</b> Falafel is mainly enjoyed as a street food.
<h3>Health benefits</h3>
It is an excellent vegetarian option as an alternative to meat-based street foods.
As the main ingredient is chickpeas, it is high in fiber and a good source of plant-based protein.
This food is rich in B vitamins and essential minerals, including iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. As falafel is a fried food, there are healthier alternatives, such as baking it in the oven or using an air fryer.
