Deliciously Crispy Homemade Falafel: Deep-Fried Balls Made from Ground Chickpeas

If you’re searching for an easy Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. recipe that packs a punch, you’ve come to the right place! This classic dish is beloved worldwide for its satisfying crunch and hearty flavor. Originating in the Middle East, falafel is traditionally made from ground chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, resulting in a vegan treat that’s perfect for any meal. Not only are they a fantastic source of plant-based protein, but homemade Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. also brings the aroma of the bustling streets of Cairo to your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the journey of creating homemade Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. from scratch. From selecting the freshest ingredients to deep-frying until golden brown, every step will be covered in detail, ensuring that you achieve falafel perfection. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes per batch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving Size: Approximately 20 falafel balls

Ingredients for Falafel

Get ready to whip up this satisfying dish with the following ingredients:

For the Falafel:

1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

For a gluten-free version, ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
Add 1 tablespoon of tahini for a richer flavor.
Use almond milk instead of water to soak the chickpeas for a nutty twist.

Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following tools at hand:

Food processor
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Frying pan or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Paper towels for draining
Cookie scoop or tablespoon for shaping the falafel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soak the Chickpeas: Begin by rinsing and soaking 1 cup of dried chickpeas in plenty of water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This crucial step hydrates the chickpeas and prepares them for grinding.
Prepare the Mixture: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until a coarse paste forms. Be careful not to over-process; you want texture.
Form the Falafel Balls: Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties about 1-2 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a little flour to help bind it.
Heat the Oil: In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of falafel mixture in—it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the Falafel: Carefully lower the falafel balls into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they are done when they float to the surface.
Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve your falafel hot!

Special Notes

After you’ve made your delicious falafel, here are a few tips:

Storage: Falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Shape and fry when ready to serve.
Troubleshooting: If your falafel crumbles while frying, it may be too dry. Add a little water, a teaspoon at a time, to moisten the mixture and hold it together.

Variations and Customizations

Here are some creative ideas to customize your falafel:

Spicy Falafel: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply ensure that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Air Fryer Falafel: For a healthier option, try air-frying the falafel at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Falafel Balls)

Calories: 120
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 4g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your falafel, you’ll be greeted by aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Picture the lush green parsley and cilantro mingling with the soft, golden chickpeas in your food processor, creating a vibrant mixture. Upon frying, the falafel will bubble and sizzle in the hot oil, transforming into crispy balls with a golden-brown exterior. When done, they should smell heavenly and be crispy to the touch, releasing an irresistible aroma that beckons for a taste.

Consider including photos at each cooking stage: soaking chickpeas, blending the mixture, frying to golden perfection, and a final plate presentation with fresh vegetables or pita bread.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make delicious falafel at home, we encourage you to give this easy recipe a try. The combination of crunchy exteriors with soft, flavorful centers is bound to delight you and impress your friends and family! Whether enjoyed in a sandwich, alongside a fresh salad, or dipped in creamy tahini sauce, these falafel will undoubtedly become a favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, or share a photo of your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish!