Homemade Falafel Recipe with Step-by-Step Photo Guide!

Falafel is a popular and flavorful dish from southern Iran that instantly brings to mind its spicy and delightful taste—something everyone has experienced in their own way. It’s a nutritious, inexpensive, and quick meal with roots in Arab countries, often served with different seasonings depending on the region. While enjoying falafel at street restaurants has its own charm, homemade versions are healthier and just as enjoyable.

To make perfect homemade falafel, you need a professional recipe and a few chef’s tips to achieve the authentic texture and taste. Preparing falafel at home is simple and quick, and with a good recipe, you can enjoy this classic dish anytime.

Falafel is loved not only by children and teenagers but also by adults. It is mainly made from chickpeas, which are among the most nutritious legumes. Although falafel, like samosas and Bandari sausages, is considered fast food, it is very affordable and quick to prepare. Once you learn the recipe, you can serve it as a sandwich with mustard sauce and enjoy it to the fullest.

Ingredients for Falafel

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the chickpeas
Soak the chickpeas for 24 hours before frying, changing the water several times.

Step 2: Prepare the mixture
Grind the soaked chickpeas with chopped parsley, peeled and finely chopped onion, and cleaned garlic using a meat grinder or food processor.

Step 3: Season and shape
Add salt, pepper, and spices to the mixture. Using a spoon or falafel molds, shape the mixture into small dome-shaped balls.

Step 4: Fry the falafel
If the mixture is too wet, add some chickpea flour to absorb excess water. Fry the falafel in hot oil, turning them when they rise to the surface. Use a deep, small pan to minimize oil usage and prevent burning.

Step 5: Drain and serve
Place the fried falafel on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Serve with pickles, tomatoes, chopped lettuce, and your choice of sauces, such as mango sauce.

Mango sauce tip: Mix 1 tablespoon of mango powder with 6 tablespoons of hot water and a dash of white vinegar, then pour over the falafel.

Oven-Baked Falafel

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

2. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until mixed, but not pureed; the mixture should remain slightly coarse. Add a little olive oil if needed to help bind the mixture.

3. Shape the mixture into small balls or use a mold, placing them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.

4. Bake for 10 minutes on one side, flip, and bake for another 15 minutes until crispy. Avoid over-baking to keep the interior soft.

5. Serve in pita or any sandwich bread with yogurt, sauces, chopped onions, parsley, or pickled vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Falafel

1. Serve with a warm drink like mint tea to enhance the flavors.

2. For a crispier texture, add 1 tsp of baking powder to the mixture.

3. Ensure the oil is hot before frying.

4. Best condiments include pickled vegetables and mango or mustard sauce.

Additional Notes:

• Preparation time: ~1 hour

• Cooking and resting time: ~30 minutes

• Servings: 6 people

• Can be served as lunch, snack, or during Ramadan for Iftar