Crispy Falafel Recipe

What is falafel?

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs, spices, and other ingredients. The mixture is shaped into small patties or balls and then deep-fried or baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Falafel is often served in pita bread with various accompaniments and sauces, such as tahini or tzatziki.

The exact origin of falafel is a subject of debate, and its history goes back several centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Levant region, which includes modern-day countries like Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. However, different cultures within the region have their own variations of falafel.

The earliest known version of falafel dates back to ancient Egypt, where a dish called "taʿamiya" was made with fava beans. Over time, the use of chickpeas became more common, and today, they are the predominant ingredient in most falafel recipes.

Falafel gained popularity across the Middle East, particularly among the Arab communities. It later spread to other parts of the world, thanks to immigration and global cultural exchange. Today, falafel is enjoyed internationally and has become a popular vegetarian or vegan option due to its flavorful and nutritious qualities.

Why is this the best falafel recipe?

The combination of its delightful taste, versatility, cultural significance, and health benefits has contributed to the widespread popularity of falafel worldwide.

• This falafel has a unique and delicious taste. The combination of herbs, spices, and the crispy exterior with a moist and flavorful interior creates a satisfying and enjoyable culinary experience.
• It is a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans as it is made entirely from plant-based ingredients. It is a protein-rich alternative to meat-based dishes and provides a substantial and satisfying meal.
• Also, it can be served in various ways, making it a versatile dish. It is commonly enjoyed in pita bread as a sandwich or wrap, but it can also be served on a platter with salads, dips, and sauces. This adaptability allows for different flavor combinations and accommodates various dietary preferences.
• Falafel is often considered a healthier fast food option. It is high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates from chickpeas or fava beans. Additionally, it is typically deep-fried or baked, which reduces the amount of added fats compared to other fried dishes.
• It is naturally free of common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and gluten, making it suitable for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
• And falafel is often associated with street food culture. Its convenient and portable nature makes it an ideal on-the-go option, appealing to those looking for a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredients and substitutes

• Chickpeas - You have to use raw chickpeas also called garbanzo beans. In some middle eastern countries like Egypt, a combination of chickpeas and fava beans is also used. Most importantly you have to soak the beans for 8 to 10 hours. DO NOT USE CANNED CHICKPEAS.
• Fresh herbs - Fresh cilantro and fresh parsley or a combination of both work great.
• Onions - You can use red or brown onions. You can even use shallots but only the white, not the green parts. You can even use scallions
• Garlic - Use fresh garlic cloves and don't use too much.
• Bread crumbs - This helps soak up the excess moisture so you can form the balls. Chickpea flour or all-purpose flour works just as well.
• Sesame seeds - Here in Israel they often use sesame seeds, which I like very much but these can be omitted.
• Spices - Cumin adds a nice Middle Eastern smokey flavor along with paprika. I highly recommend it. You can also add the ground coriander and cayenne pepper.

Tips for making crisp falafel

1. Properly soaked chickpeas: Start with dried chickpeas and soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before using them in the recipe. Do not use canned chickpeas for this recipe.
2. Thoroughly drained and dried ingredients: After soaking the chickpeas, drain them well and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Excess moisture in the mixture can make the falafel dense and prevent them from getting crispy. You can leave the mixture in a strainer or on a clean towel for a few minutes to remove any remaining moisture.
3. Use a food processor: Use a food processor to blend the ingredients. This will help achieve a consistent texture while ensuring the mixture is not overworked. Process the ingredients until they are well combined and have a coarse texture.
4. Proper seasoning: Use a combination of aromatic herbs and spices like parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, garlic, and onion powder to give your falafel a flavorful kick. Make sure to season the mixture generously to enhance the taste.
5. Resting time: Allow the falafel mixture to rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping them into patties or balls. This resting time helps the flavors to meld together and allows the mixture to firm up slightly, making it easier to shape.
6. Appropriate oil temperature: When deep-frying the falafel, ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature, usually around 350-375°F (175-190°C). If the oil is not hot enough, the falafel may absorb more oil and become greasy. Using a thermometer can help maintain the correct temperature.
7. Maintain the right size and shape: Whether you're making patties or balls, try to keep them uniform in size. This ensures even cooking and helps them crisp up evenly. Flatten the patties slightly to increase the surface area, which promotes better browning and crispiness.
8. Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan or deep-fryer. Fry the falafel in batches, allowing enough space for them to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
9. Drain excess oil: Once the falafel is golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain any excess oil.
10. Baking falafel can be baked in the oven at 350F/177C/Gas mark 4 for 15 to 20 minutes. Place them on an oiled baking tray and spray them with oil, turning them at least once during baking. For baking, I prefer to shape them flat disc rather than into balls. 
11. Golden falafel - Deep frying will give the falafel that classic golden color. Unfortunately, baking does not. So if you choose to bake, do not wait for them to become brown. This can result in them overbaking or drying out. 
12. Freezing falafel mixture - the mixture can be frozen in freezer-safe storage bags for up to a month. Alternatively, you can shape them into balls and freeze them on a baking tray. Once frozen place them in storage bags and freeze for up to a month. For best results thaw in the fridge overnight. 

Troubleshooting

If you're experiencing issues with your falafel recipe, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

1. Falling apart: If your falafel patties or balls are falling apart while frying, it could be due to the mixture needing to be dry, too thick, or binding properly. To fix this, add a small amount of water or a binding agent like flour or breadcrumbs to help hold the mixture together. Start with a tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds its shape when formed into patties or balls. You can also pulse in the food processor for a few times more.
2. Soggy or dense: If your falafel turns out soggy or dense, it might be due to excess moisture in the mixture or over-processing the ingredients. Ensure that you drain and dry the soaked chickpeas thoroughly before blending. Also, avoid over-processing the mixture in the food processor, as this can lead to a dense texture. Blend the ingredients until they are combined but still have a coarse texture.
3. Not crispy: If your falafel is not crispy enough, it could be due to a few reasons. First, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C) before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the falafel will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Also, ensure that the falafel is not overcrowded in the pan or fryer, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and affect crispiness. Fry them in small batches to allow for even cooking and browning.
4. Too dry: If your falafel turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or using a mixture that is too dry. Be mindful of the cooking time, and remove the falafel from the oil as soon as they are golden brown. Additionally, if the mixture seems dry, try adding more moisture to it, such as lemon juice, olive oil, or a tablespoon of water, to help achieve a moister texture.
5. Lacks flavor: If your falafel lacks flavor, it might be due to insufficient seasoning or not allowing the mixture to rest and develop flavors. Season the mixture generously with herbs, spices, and salt. Also, allow the mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping and cooking. This resting time helps the flavors to meld together and intensify.

Remember that falafel recipes can vary, and it may take a bit of experimentation to achieve the desired results. Adjustments in ingredient ratios, cooking time, and seasonings can help troubleshoot and refine your falafel recipe.

Customizing your falafel

Customizing falafel allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and ways to customize your falafel:

1. Herb-infused falafel: Add additional herbs to the falafel mixture for added flavor. Try incorporating fresh dill, mint, basil, or oregano and traditional parsley and cilantro into the mixture.
2. Spicy falafel: If you enjoy spicy food, add some heat to your falafel. Include chopped chili peppers, such as jalapeños or serranos, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to give your falafel a kick.
3. Nutty falafel: Add a nutty twist to your falafel by including crushed nuts in the mixture. Almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts can add a delightful texture and flavor. Simply pulse the nuts in a food processor before incorporating them into the falafel mixture.
4. Vegetable-packed falafel: Boost the nutritional value of your falafel by adding finely chopped or grated vegetables to the mixture. Carrots, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers can all be incorporated for extra freshness and color.
5. Cheesy falafel: Mix in crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture for a cheesy twist. The cheese will melt and create pockets of savory goodness in each falafel bite.
6. Black bean falafel: Experiment with different legumes by using black beans instead of chickpeas or fava beans. This variation adds a slightly different flavor and color to your falafel.
7. Sweet potato falafel: Incorporate mashed sweet potatoes into the falafel mixture for a slightly sweeter and vibrant option. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with the savory flavors of the herbs and spices.
8. Whole grain falafel: Replace some chickpeas with cooked whole grains like quinoa, bulgur wheat, or brown rice. This variation adds a hearty and chewy texture to the falafel while increasing its nutritional profile.

Remember to adjust the seasoning and other ingredients accordingly when customizing your falafel to maintain the right balance of flavors. Feel free to combine multiple variations or create your own unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so have fun exploring different flavors and finding your favorite falafel variation!

Creative ways to serve falafel?

While falafel is traditionally served in pita bread with accompanying sauces and vegetables, there are many creative ways to serve falafel. Here are some traditional as well as new ideas to inspire you:

1. Falafel in pita - In the Middle East, falafel is typically served in pita bread with hummus, tahini, or chopped salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, and onion.
2. Falafel wrap - you can also serve falafel wrapped in a large flatbread called laffa with tahini and chopped salad
3. Main course - At restaurants, you will often have falafel served along with kebabs, fragrant rice, some grilled onions, and chopped salad with tahini or yogurt sauce. Sometimes, it can also be served with tzatziki sauce which is made with Greek yogurt and cucumber.
4. Mediterranean salad - For a light lunch, serve the falafel with grilled shawarma over a light salad made with some fresh lettuce and chopped veggies.
5. Falafel is often served as part of a mezze along with other appetizers. such as
   • Baba ganoush or Lebanese eggplant salad
   • Avocado salad, beet salad, or chickpea salad
   • Shawarma chicken, Ground beef kebabs,
   • Hummus with tahini, healthy hummus, or ground beef hummus
6. Falafel bowl: Create a nourishing falafel bowl by layering falafel on a bed of quinoa, couscous, or mixed greens. Top it with colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, roasted bell peppers, and pickled onions. Drizzle with tahini sauce or a lemony dressing for added flavor.
7. Falafel sliders: Make mini falafel sliders by placing small falafel patties on slider buns or small rolls. Add toppings like sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki. They make great appetizers or party bites.
8. Falafel tacos: Give your falafel a Mexican twist by stuffing them into soft tortillas. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, and crumbled feta cheese for a fusion of flavors.
9. Falafel salad: Toss falafel with various fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a tangy lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a light and refreshing falafel salad.
10. Falafel wraps or burritos: Wrap falafel in large tortillas or flatbreads with your fillings. Include a combination of crunchy vegetables, such as shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and red cabbage. Add a spread of hummus, tahini sauce, or yogurt-based sauces for added creaminess.
11. Falafel pizza: Use falafel as a pizza topping. Spread a thin layer of hummus on a pizza crust, sprinkle crumbled falafel on top, and add other toppings like sliced olives, red onions, and feta cheese. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese has melted. Drizzle with tahini sauce.
12. Falafel skewers: Thread falafel balls onto skewers, alternating with colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions. Grill or bake them for a flavorful and visually appealing falafel kebab dish.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to customize your falafel creations. The possibilities are endless!

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