Delicious and Easy Vegan Falafel Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of dried chickpeas
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour (gluten-free if necessary)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Allow them to soak overnight, then drain. Or, you can use canned chickpeas, rinsed.
  2. In a food processor, combine drained, uncooked chickpeas, onions, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Process until blended but not pureed.
  3. Sprinkle in the baking powder and 1/4 cup of the flour, and pulse. You want to add enough bulgur or flour so that the dough forms a small ball and no longer sticks to your hands. Turn into a bowl and refrigerate, covered, for several hours.
  4. Form the chickpea mixture into balls about the size of walnuts, or use a falafel scoop, available in Middle-Eastern markets.
  5. Heat 3 inches of oil to 375 in a deep pot or wok and fry 1 ball to test. If it falls apart, add a little flour. Then fry about six balls at once for a few minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Tools for making

  • Food Processor - Used to blend the chickpeas and other ingredients into a mixture
  • Bowl - Used for soaking the dried chickpeas and mixing the ingredients
  • Deep Pot or Wok - Used for frying the falafel balls
  • Paper Towels - Used for draining the fried falafel balls

Recipe variations

  • Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a handful of spinach or kale to the chickpea mixture for added nutrition.
  • Try different spices such as paprika, turmeric, or curry powder to give the falafel a unique flavor.
  • Replace the traditional deep-frying method with baking the falafel in the oven for a healthier option.
  • Experiment with different toppings and sauces, such as tahini sauce, tzatziki, or spicy harissa.
  • Make mini falafel patties and serve them as sliders or in pita pockets.
  • Add grated carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
  • For a nutty twist, mix in some crushed almonds, cashews, or sesame seeds to the chickpea mixture.
  • Create a falafel bowl by serving the falafel on a bed of quinoa or couscous with a variety of fresh vegetables and a drizzle of dressing.
  • Make a falafel wrap by stuffing the falafel in a tortilla or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite sauce.

Recipe overview

This is a delightful vegan falafel recipe that's easy to make and incredibly delicious. Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that has become popular among vegetarians and vegans worldwide because it's a hearty, flavorful option that's packed with protein from the chickpeas. This recipe offers the perfect blend of herbs, spices, and all-important chickpeas, resulting in falafels that are perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside. We'll guide you through the process of making these tasty balls of joy, from creating the perfect falafel mixture to frying them to golden perfection. Enjoy these vegan falafels on their own, in a salad, or stuffed into a warm pita bread for a satisfying meal or snack.

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried chickpeas? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas as a substitute for dried chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse them well before using.
  2. Do I need to soak the dried chickpeas? Yes, it is recommended to soak the dried chickpeas overnight in cold water. This helps to soften them and make them easier to blend. If using canned chickpeas, soaking is not necessary.
  3. Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time. After processing the ingredients, cover the bowl and refrigerate for several hours before shaping and frying the falafel.
  4. Can I bake the falafel instead of frying? While traditionally falafel is fried, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the shaped falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  5. Can I freeze the uncooked falafel mixture? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked falafel mixture. Shape the mixture into balls and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen falafel balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator before frying or baking.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Food Processor - A food processor is essential for blending the ingredients into a smooth mixture.
  • Deep Pot or Wok - You will need a deep pot or wok for frying the falafel balls in oil.
  • Paper Towels - Paper towels are necessary for draining the fried falafel balls and removing excess oil.

Origin stories

Falafel, that delightful, crunchy, golden ball of deliciousness, has a history as rich as its flavor. Often considered the "national dish" of Israel, the origins of falafel are shrouded in mystery and, dare I say, a bit of controversy. It is widely believed that the dish originated in Egypt, possibly consumed by Copts as a replacement for meat during Lent. However, it didn't stay in Egypt for long. This humble mixture of fava beans or chickpeas, herbs, and spices, once discovered, quickly spread throughout the Middle East. Each region, each country, each family even, adding their own unique twist to the recipe. Today, falafel is not just loved in the Middle East, but all around the globe. It's a testament to the power of a simple and nutritious meal that can bring people together, no matter where they come from.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.