How to Make Delicious Homemade Falafel

Kochi

31 Mar, 2023

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a favourite around the world. While it is widely available in restaurants and food trucks, there's nothing quite like making your own homemade falafel. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide to making delicious falafel at home.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried chickpeas
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

Soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain and rinse the chickpeas well.
In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until it forms a coarse paste.
Add the parsley and cilantro and pulse a few more times until the herbs are well incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the falafel mixture into small balls or patties. Place them in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve the falafel warm with your favourite toppings and sauces, such as tahini sauce, hummus, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.

Tips:

To ensure that your falafel holds together well, make sure that the chickpeas are not too wet after soaking. Pat them dry with a paper towel before processing.
If you don't have a food processor, you can use a blender or a mortar and pestle to make the falafel mixture.
If the falafel mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water to help it come together.
Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the falafel, as this can cause them to cook unevenly.

Falafel can also be baked instead of fried. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the falafel on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

In conclusion, making your own falafel at home is not as difficult as it may seem, and the results are well worth the effort. With this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy delicious, homemade falafel whenever you like.