Falafel, those golden, crispy-on-the-outside, and soft-on-the-inside balls, have won hearts worldwide. Originating from the Middle East, they pack a flavorful punch that’s hard to resist. When paired with a creamy tahini dipping sauce, the taste is downright irresistible. This recipe cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and gatherings. Let’s begin!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (depending on batch size)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the falafel:
- 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for frying
For the tahini dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3–4 tbsp water to thin
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, spices, flour, and salt. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry falafel in batches until they are golden and crispy.
- For the tahini sauce, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Add water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Serve falafel hot with the tahini sauce for dipping.
Notes
Whether you’re familiar with falafel or this is your first foray, there’s a certain satisfaction in creating these crispy delights at home. To elevate the experience, try serving with some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even wrap them in a pita. The key is achieving that perfect crisp exterior, so ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. The tahini sauce is a must, offering a creamy contrast. Enjoy this dish as a hearty appetizer or a main, and get ready for some happy taste buds!
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
