Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a favorite all around the world. This vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish is made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices and is often served in a pita with tahini sauce and vegetables. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making falafel at home and share some tips and tricks to make it your own.
History of Falafel
Falafel has a long history that dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was made with fava beans. Over time, the recipe evolved and chickpeas became the main ingredient. Falafel is now considered a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and is enjoyed all around the world.
Ingredients
To make falafel, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2-3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1
Soak the chickpeas in cold water overnight.
2
Drain and rinse the chickpeas and place them in a food processor.
3
Add the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, salt, black pepper, and baking soda to the food processor.
4
Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped but not pureed.
5
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour until the mixture holds together.
6
Form the mixture into small balls or patties and place them on a baking sheet.
7
Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
8
Fry the falafel in batches until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
9
Drain the falafel on a paper towel-lined plate.
10
Serve the falafel in a pita with tahini sauce and your favorite vegetables.
Tips and Tricks
1
Use dried chickpeas for the best results. Canned chickpeas may be too soft and result in a mushy texture.
2
Add more flour if the mixture is too wet or sticky. The mixture should hold together but not be too dry.
3
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the falafel. If the oil is not hot enough, the falafel may fall apart or become too greasy.
4
Serve the falafel with tahini sauce, hummus, or tzatziki sauce, and your favorite vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Conclusion
Falafel is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some Middle Eastern spices, you.
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