Falafel is a classic Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, typically flavored with herbs and spices, then fried until crispy. Here's a vegan falafel recipe that uses chickpeas, along with herbs and spices, to create delicious, crispy falafel balls or patties:
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (not canned), soaked overnight
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2-3 tablespoons flour or chickpea flour (as needed for binding)
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil, canola oil, or similar)
Instructions
Soak the Chickpeas: Start by soaking the dried chickpeas in water overnight. This step is crucial, as it allows the chickpeas to soften without cooking, which contributes to the falafel's texture.
Prepare the Falafel Mixture: Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and baking soda. Pulse the mixture until it is finely ground but not completely smooth. It should hold together when pressed but still have some texture.
Add Flour for Binding: If the mixture is too loose or crumbly, add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together when formed into a ball.
Shape the Falafel: Using your hands or a falafel scoop, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
Fry the Falafel: Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C), carefully add the falafel balls or patties. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve the Falafel: Serve the falafel warm with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. You can also add fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Chickpeas: Use dried chickpeas for the best texture. Canned chickpeas can result in a mushy falafel.
- Baking Soda: This helps lighten the mixture and create a fluffier texture.
- Adjusting the Mixture: If your falafel doesn't hold together, add more flour. If it's too dry, add a small amount of water or oil.
- Baking Option: If you prefer to bake falafel, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with a little oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy your vegan falafel! This recipe is perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a tasty weeknight dinner.