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Crispy falafel balls with chickpeas and herbs on a white plate.

FALAFEL

Sana Umer
Falafel are crispy, golden-brown chickpea fritters seasoned with herbs and spices. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or in pita sandwiches with tahini and veggies.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

For Falafel:

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight
  • 1 small onion roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions
 

Prepare Chickpea Mixture:

  • Drain soaked chickpeas and pulse in a food processor with onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro until finely ground.

Season and Chill:

  • Add cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined. Chill mixture for 30 minutes.

Fry Falafel:

  • Form mixture into small balls or patties. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry until golden brown, 3–4 minutes per side.

Serve:

  • Drain on paper towels. Serve warm with tahini sauce, pita bread, or salad.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Chickpea mixture can be made a few hours in advance and chilled.
  • Variations: Bake instead of fry for a healthier version, or add spices like paprika for extra flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve in pita pockets, as a salad topper, or with dips like hummus or tahini.
  • Allergy-Friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free if served without pita.
  • Storage Tips: Store fried falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Keyword easy chicken skewers, FALAFEL, high-protein snack