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How to Make Your Favorite Homemade Falafel: A Delicious and Authentic Recipe

Falafel is a beloved favorite food in many parts of the world, celebrated for its crispy exterior, flavorful herbs, and satisfying texture. Originally a Middle Eastern street food classic, falafel has become a staple in vegetarian and vegan cooking everywhere. If you’ve ever enjoyed falafel from a restaurant or food stand, there’s something truly special about making your own homemade version that you can tweak to your favorite flavors.

What Makes Falafel a Favorite Food?

Falafel's appeal is more than just taste. It’s a favorite food because it’s:

  • Deliciously crunchy: The perfect falafel is golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
  • Versatile: Falafel fits many occasions, from street food snacks to part of a complete meal.
  • Nutritious: Made primarily from chickpeas or fava beans, falafel is high in protein and fiber.
  • Customizable: Herbs and spices can be adjusted to suit your personal flavor favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Favorite Homemade Falafel

To make falafel the traditional way, you’ll want to use dried chickpeas soaked overnight rather than canned. This ensures a better texture. Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get you started:

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained)
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (packed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2–3 tablespoons flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Favorite Falafel at Home

Follow these simple steps to get falafel that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with your favorite flavors:

1. Soak the Chickpeas

Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with cold water by several inches. Soak overnight or for at least 12 hours. This rehydrates the chickpeas, which is key to achieving the right texture.

2. Prepare the Mixture

Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor along with onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, spices, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not pureed — you want a coarse, slightly chunky texture. Scrape down the sides as needed.

3. Add Baking Powder and Flour

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the baking powder and flour. The flour helps bind the falafel so it holds its shape while frying. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour.

4. Chill and Rest

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm it up and enhances the flavors.

5. Form the Falafel Balls or Patties

Using wet hands or a falafel scoop, shape the mixture into balls or small patties about 1.5 inches in diameter. Avoid packing them too tightly to keep the texture light.

6. Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the falafel in batches for 3–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serving Ideas: How to Enjoy Your Favorite Falafel

Falafel shines when paired with vibrant sides and sauces. Here are some classic ways to serve it:

  • In pita pockets: Stuff falafel balls with fresh vegetables, pickles, and a drizzle of tahini or hummus.
  • As part of a mezze platter: Serve with olives, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, and flatbreads for a colorful spread.
  • On salads: Add warm falafel atop greens with a lemony dressing for a filling vegetarian meal.
  • With sauces: Classic tahini sauce, garlic yogurt dressing, or spicy harissa complement falafel beautifully.

Tips for Perfecting Your Favorite Falafel Recipe

  • Use fresh herbs: Parsley and cilantro bring brightness and authentic flavor.
  • Don't over-process: Keeping some texture in the mix prevents soggy falafel.
  • Test fry first: Fry a small piece first to check seasoning and texture.
  • Maintain oil temperature: Keeping the oil hot ensures crispy falafel without absorbing excess oil.
  • Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika, sumac, or even a touch of cinnamon for your signature twist.

Making your favorite homemade falafel is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. With simple ingredients and a little practice, you’ll create this beloved favorite food anytime you crave something crispy, flavorful, and wholesome. Whether you enjoy it as a quick snack or a centerpiece for a meal, falafel is sure to become one of your favorite homemade recipes.