Ingredients

500 ml dried garbanzo beans ( absolutely not canned )
1 medium onion , quartered
2 -3 garlic cloves
2 -3 slices stale bread
50 ml parsley
1/3 sweet red pepper
10 ml salt
3 ml black pepper
10 ml cumin
10 ml oregano
10 ml ground coriander
5 ml hot red pepper flakes
20 ml flour
10 ml baking powder
50 ml water
5 ml baking powder
125 ml water
vegetable oil ( for deep frying )
175 ml tahini , sesame seed paste , stir tahini before measuring
1 garlic clove , crushed
1 1/2 to 2 lemon , juice of
175 ml water
5 ml salt
50 ml finely chopped parsley
tomatoes , slices ( optional )
dill pickle slices ( optional )
chopped parsley ( optional )
fresh spearmint ( I hate to say optional , I think this is essential ! ) ( optional )
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a beloved street food all over the world. Traditionally made with fried or baked patties of chickpeas, fava beans, or a combination of both, falafel is often served in pita bread with vegetables and condiments like hummus and tahini. The origin of falafel is debated, with some claiming it is an ancient Egyptian dish and others tracing it back to the Ottoman Empire. Regardless of its history, falafel has become a global favorite for its delicious taste and vegetarian and vegan options. This recipe is a classic take on falafel, served with a tangy and creamy taratoor sauce made from tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It is a perfect meal for vegetarians, or anyone looking for a flavorful and filling plant-based dish.

Instructions

1.Soak the dried garbanzo beans in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2.Drain the beans and rinse well.
3.In a food processor, pulse the onion and garlic until finely chopped.
4.Add the beans, stale bread, parsley, red pepper, salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, coriander, and hot pepper flakes to the food processor.
5.Process the mixture until it forms a smooth paste.
6.Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour and baking powder.
7.Gradually add the water, mixing well until the dough is thick and sticky.
8.Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
9.In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F.
10.Using your hands or a scoop, form the falafel dough into balls or patties.
11.Carefully place the falafel into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on the outside (about 2-3 minutes).
12.Remove the falafel from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
13.In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, water, and salt to make the taratoor sauce.
14.Serve the falafel hot with the taratoor sauce on top, and optional toppings of tomatoes, dill pickles, chopped parsley, and fresh spearmint.

PROS

Falafel is a delicious and filling vegetarian meal option that is high in plant-based protein and fiber.

The spices in the falafel dough give it a unique and flavorful taste, while the taratoor sauce adds a tangy and creamy topping.

This recipe can be made ahead of time and is great for meal prep or leftovers.

CONS

The frying process can make the falafel high in calories and fat, although baking or air frying can be a healthier alternative.

The use of canned garbanzo beans instead of dried is not recommended, as they will result in a mushy and less flavorful falafel.

Some may find the preparation process to be time-consuming.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Falafel is a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.
The garbanzo beans used in this recipe are high in folate, iron, and magnesium.
The spices used in the falafel dough, such as cumin and coriander, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in digestion and boost immune health.
The tahini used in the taratoor sauce is made from sesame seeds, which are a good source of healthy fats and contain important minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.

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