If you're looking to enhance your culinary repertoire, exploring the five best falafel recipes might be just what you need. You can start with the classic chickpea version, which balances crispy and soft textures, or venture into the spicy harissa variety for a bold flavor twist. There are also inventive options like herbed quinoa and Mediterranean lentil falafel to contemplate. And let's not forget the sweet potato falafel, which adds a unique sweetness. Each recipe has its own character, but which one will stand out as your favorite?
Classic Chickpea Falafel
Classic Chickpea Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas and herbs, perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.
These crispy, golden-brown balls are often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce, making them an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. With a wonderfully spiced interior and a crunchy exterior, they're sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves 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
Instructions:
Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then place them in a food processor along with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Pulse until the mixture is coarsely ground but not pureed. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat. Form the chickpea mixture into small balls or patties, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best texture, make sure to let the falafel mixture rest before frying, as this will help it firm up and hold its shape.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste; adding a pinch of cayenne or paprika can give your falafel a nice kick.
If you prefer a healthier option, consider baking them instead of frying—just brush the falafel with a little olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spicy Harissa Falafel
Spicy Harissa Falafel is a vibrant twist on the classic falafel, infused with the fiery flavors of North African harissa paste. This recipe takes traditional chickpeas and herbs and amps them up with the warmth and heat of spices, making for a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or served in a wrap, salad, or as part of a mezze platter.
Perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves bold flavors, these falafels are sure to impress at your next gathering or meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then place them in a food processor along with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, harissa paste, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Pulse until the mixture is coarsely blended, ensuring not to over-process. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
Once chilled, form the mixture into small balls or patties. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat and fry the falafel for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a healthier option, you can bake the falafel instead of frying them—just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Additionally, adjusting the amount of harissa paste will control the spice level, so feel free to add more or less according to your preference.
Serve your spicy harissa falafel with a tangy tahini sauce or a cooling yogurt dip to balance the heat.
Herbed Quinoa Falafel
Herbed Quinoa Falafel is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional falafel, combining protein-packed quinoa with savory herbs and spices to create a delightful dish that's perfect for a healthy meal or snack. This recipe is easy to follow and can be baked or fried, depending on your preference. The result is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a fantastic option for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Serve these falafels with a side of tahini sauce or a fresh salad for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup flour (more if needed)
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
Instructions:
Start by cooking the quinoa; combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to a large mixing bowl along with the chopped herbs, green onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
Mix thoroughly, then gradually add flour until the mixture holds together but isn't overly sticky.
Form the mixture into small balls or patties. If frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the falafel for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the falafel on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, let the falafel mixture rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking; this allows the flavors to meld together.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with chickpea flour or almond flour.
Additionally, feel free to get creative by adding other herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Storing leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator will keep them fresh for a few days, and they can easily be reheated in the oven or a skillet.
Mediterranean Lentil Falafel
Mediterranean Lentil Falafel is a delicious and nutritious twist on the traditional chickpea version. Packed with protein and fiber, lentils offer a hearty base for these flavorful balls, while herbs and spices bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your plate.
Whether served in a pita, as part of a salad, or on their own with a tangy dipping sauce, these lentil falafels are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves 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 cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup flour (more if needed for consistency)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Start by rinsing the lentils and cooking them in a pot with water for about 20-25 minutes until they're tender.
Drain and let them cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour.
Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until well combined but still somewhat chunky. If the mixture is too wet, gradually add more flour until it holds together.
Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry the lentil falafels in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, let the falafel mixture sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before shaping and frying; this helps the flavors meld.
If you want to bake the falafels instead of frying them, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the shaped falafels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush them lightly with olive oil.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown. Serve them with tahini sauce, yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor!
Sweet Potato Falafel
Sweet potato falafel is a delicious twist on the traditional chickpea version, offering a slight sweetness and a vibrant color that makes these bites not only tasty but visually appealing. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack, a filling lunch, or a party appetizer.
Packed with nutrients and flavor, sweet potato falafel can be served on their own, in a wrap, or atop a fresh salad, making them a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup flour (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, chickpeas, parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Use a fork or a potato masher to mix the ingredients until they're well combined, but still have some texture. Gradually add flour until the mixture holds together without being sticky.
Form the mixture into small balls or patties. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and carefully add the falafel, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they're golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the sweet potato falafel instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the formed falafel on a lined baking sheet, brush them lightly with oil, and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Serve the falafel with a yogurt sauce or tahini dressing for an extra layer of flavor!