How to Make Homemade Falafel: Step-by-Step with Photos

Falafel is a delicious and popular southern dish whose name instantly evokes the spicy, satisfying taste many of us have experienced. Nutritious, affordable, and quick, this dish has roots in Arab countries and is served with different seasonings in each region. While enjoying falafel at street restaurants has its charm, homemade versions are healthier and just as delightful. For this, you’ll need a professional recipe along with chef tips to master perfect falafel at home. Making falafel is simple and fast, and with a good recipe, you can enjoy it anytime.

Falafel is loved by children, teens, and adults alike and is made primarily from chickpeas, one of the most nutritious legumes. Although considered fast food like samosas and sausages, falafel is inexpensive, quick to prepare, and can be served in sandwiches with mustard sauce for maximum enjoyment.

Ingredients for Falafel

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Soak Chickpeas
Soak chickpeas 24 hours in advance, changing the water several times.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Combine soaked chickpeas, chopped parsley, onion, and garlic in a food processor or meat grinder. Blend until mixed.

Step 3: Season and Shape
Add salt, pepper, and spices. Shape falafel with a spoon or mold. If mixture is watery, add a little chickpea flour. Form into dome shapes.

Step 4: Frying
Heat oil in a deep, small pan. Fry falafel on both sides until golden and floating in oil. Use care to prevent burning.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Place fried falafel on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve with pickles, tomatoes, lettuce, and mango sauce.

Mango Sauce Preparation: Mix 1 part mango powder with 6 parts hot water and a splash of white vinegar. Pour over falafel.

Oven-Baked Falafel

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F).

2. Blend all ingredients until combined but not pureed. Add a little olive oil to help stickiness. Chill mixture for a few hours if needed.

3. Form small balls or patties, slightly flatten, and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

4. Bake 10 minutes, flip, and bake 15 more minutes until crispy. Adjust time for darker color without drying inside.

5. Serve in pita or sandwich bread with yogurt, sauces, onions, parsley, and pickled red cabbage.

Tips for Homemade Falafel

1. Serve with a hot drink, like mint tea, for enhanced taste.

2. For crispier falafel, add 1 tsp baking powder.

3. Ensure oil is hot before frying.

4. Pair with mango sauce or mustard and pickled vegetables.

Additional Notes:

• Prep time: ~1 hour

• Cooking time: ~30 minutes

• Suitable for lunch or snacks; also ideal for Ramadan iftar

• Recipe serves 6 people