Falafel: The Ultimate Guide to Preparing and Enjoying the Perfect Middle Eastern Snack

Falafel is a popular dish in the Middle East that consists of a mixture of ground chickpeas or beans, herbs and spices that are formed into small balls or patties and fried. It is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and enjoyed by people all over the world. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the history of falafel, how to make it at home, and the best ways to enjoy this delicious snack.

History of falafel

The exact origins of falafel are a bit mysterious, but most historians agree that this delicious dessert has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Egypt, where it was made from fava beans. Over time, the recipe spread throughout the Middle East, and chickpeas became the staple ingredient in most regions.

Ingredients for making falafel

To prepare falafel at home, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 4 garlic cloves
• A quarter cup of fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 4-6 tablespoons flour
• frying oil

How to make falafel

After you have collected all the necessary ingredients, follow the following steps to prepare falafel:

1. Drain the chickpeas and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a food processor, mix chickpeas, onions, garlic, parsley, coriander, cumin, coriander, chili pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pulse the mixture until it is finely chopped but not mashed.
4. Sprinkle baking powder and 4 tablespoons of flour over the mixture and whisk again until the ingredients are mixed. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
6. Form the mixture into small balls or discs, then place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep fryer or pot to 375°F.
8. Carefully drop the falafel into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel from the oil, then transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
10. Serve the falafel hot with pita bread, hummus, tahini, and your favorite toppings.

The best ways to enjoy falafel

Once you’ve made a batch of delicious falafel, there are many ways to enjoy this Middle Eastern snack:

• Fill pita bread with falafel, lettuce, tomato, cucumber and tahini sauce for a classic falafel sandwich.
• Falafel is served on a plate with hummus, tahini, tabbouleh, and an assortment of pickled vegetables for a Middle Eastern feast.
• Crumble falafel over salad for extra protein and crunch.
• Falafel is served as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, spicy harissa, and creamy garlic sauce.
• Add falafel to a wrap or burrito for a unique twist on a classic dish.
• Enjoy falafel on its own as a delicious snack.

Conclusion

Falafel is a delicious and versatile snack that has been enjoyed for centuries in the Middle East and beyond. By following the simple recipe in this article, you can make your own falafel at home and enjoy it in many ways. Whether you prefer it in a sandwich, on a plate, or as a standalone snack, falafel is sure to please your taste buds and become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.