Vegetable-Packed Falafel Pita Pockets
Falafel is a classic Middle Eastern street food that is typically made with chickpeas and fava beans. This recipe uses a combination of chickpeas and lentils, which gives the falafel a more complex flavor and texture. The vegetables in this recipe add sweetness and crunch, and the herbs and spices give the falafel a boost of flavor. These falafel are perfect for serving in pita pockets with your favorite toppings.
Falafel is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is a popular street food in many Middle Eastern countries, and it is also becoming increasingly popular in the United States. There are many different ways to make falafel, but this recipe is one of my favorites. It is easy to make and the results are always delicious.
Vegetable-Packed Falafel Pita Pockets Vegetable-Packed Falafel Pita Pockets Vegetable-Packed Falafel Pita Pockets Vegetable-Packed Falafel Pita Pockets
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried chickpeas
  • 1/2 cup dried lentils
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
Instructions
  1. Rinse the chickpeas and lentils and soak them in water overnight.
  2. Drain the chickpeas and lentils and rinse them again.
  3. Add the chickpeas, lentils, onion, carrot, zucchini, parsley, cilantro, cumin, and coriander to a food processor and pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
  4. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  5. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add the falafel balls to the skillet and cook them for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.
  7. Warm the pita pockets in the oven or microwave.
  8. Fill the pita pockets with the falafel balls and your favorite toppings.
Why It Works
  • Soaking the chickpeas and lentils overnight helps to soften them and make them easier to digest.
  • Adding vegetables to the falafel mixture adds sweetness and crunch.
  • Using a combination of herbs and spices gives the falafel a boost of flavor.
  • Cooking the falafel in a hot skillet helps to create a crispy exterior.