Falafel is one of those dishes that manages to be both humble and deeply flavorful. These golden, crispy chickpea patties are a beloved staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, known for their fragrant spices, satisfying crunch, and soft, herb-filled interior. Whether tucked into warm pita bread, served over a fresh salad, or enjoyed on their own with a creamy dip, falafel is a plant-based favorite that never disappoints. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet versatile enough to be part of a larger meal.
What makes falafel so irresistible is its perfect balance of texture and flavor. The outside crisps beautifully as it fries, creating a golden shell that gives way to a tender, almost fluffy inside. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro bring a burst of color and freshness, while spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic layer in warmth and depth. The result is a bite that’s savory, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying, proof that plant-based food can be as rich and indulgent as anything else.
Falafel’s versatility is part of its enduring appeal. Stuff it into a pita with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a classic street food-style wrap. Pair it with hummus, pickled vegetables, and flatbread for a mezze-style spread, or serve it as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls and salads. It also makes a fantastic appetizer when served with yogurt sauce or spicy harissa for dipping.
Beyond its deliciousness, falafel is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. Made primarily from chickpeas, it’s naturally high in protein and fiber, making it a satisfying choice for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Its deep roots in Middle Eastern culinary traditions also give it a sense of cultural richness, connecting every bite to generations of shared meals and time-honored recipes. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a festive gathering, or a cozy dinner at home, falafel is more than just a dish, it’s comfort, tradition, and bold flavor wrapped into one perfectly crispy bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight
- 1 medium onion roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin ground
- 1 teaspoon coriander ground
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons flour all-purpose
- as needed vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Add them to a food processor along with onion, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Pulse until the mixture is well combined and resembles coarse sand. Be careful not to over-process.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the baking soda and flour. Combine everything evenly.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove falafel from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot, with pita bread, tahini sauce, or as you prefer.
Nutrition
Falafel is 5 stars, but where’s the tahini sauce recipe? Gotta have that too!!
I never made falafel before, but this was easy to follow. 😊
These were amazing! My whole family loved them. I will definitely make these again.
So glad to hear your family enjoyed it! Falafel is the best! 🌟
I tried this recipe, but the falafel fell apart while frying. What did I do wrong? 🙁
Too much parsley for my taste! Next time I’ll cut it down. Still tasty though.
I think parsley adds a nice flavor! You can always adjust it to your liking. Glad you still liked it though!
OMG this is the best falafel I made. My family loved it, they neva had homemade falafel!
I dunno, my falafels were kinda dry. Did I mess up somewhere?
Falafel is life! Seriously, better than store bought. Thanks for sharing!
Anyone knows why my falafel just falls apart? It sounds simple but I can’t seem to get it right.
YUM! I added a bit more seasoning and they came out amazing! Totally recommend trying this.
So good! I’m not even a vegetarian but I love this. Gonna make again!
These are perfect for a snack! I like to make a double batch and freeze some.
I used too much cayenne, it was so spicy! But still tasty.
Why do you soak the beans? It takes too long! Can’t we just blend them?
Falafel at home? Betttter than store bought! Just got a little messy frying but worth it.
These falafels are sooo good! 5 stars for sure! Easy to make and tastes delish.
Not bad. Greasy tho. Kinda hard to get outta the pan at times.
I tried this recipe, and my falafel turned out mushy. Maybe I added too much water? Not really happy.
Sorry to hear that! Too much water can ruin the texture for sure. Maybe try pulsing the chickpeas less next time?
These falafels were amazing! I added some extra spices and they turned out super flavorful!
Yummmm!!! Love it, will try again. Tastes great with avocado!
I thought chickpeas were beans? Am I wrong? Anyway, they were good. 3 stars.
I tried this recipe but used canned chickpeas instead. They just fell apart… maybe that’s why?
IDK if that’s true! Canned are easier but they just need the right mix. Maybe try less water next time?
Using canned chickpeas can definitely make them mushy! You should stick to dried ones for the best texture. Give it another try!