Homemade Falafel with Tangy Tahini Sauce and Pita Bread

Falafel is a Middle Eastern street food staple, and for good reason. These crispy, savory chickpea balls are packed with flavor and can be served with a variety of toppings and sauces. This recipe for homemade falafel is easy to follow and will give you perfect results every time.

Falafel has a long and storied history, dating back to the 10th century. It is believed to have originated in Egypt, where it was made with fava beans. Over time, the recipe spread to other parts of the Middle East, and chickpeas became the more common ingredient. Today, falafel is a popular street food throughout the region, and it can also be found in many restaurants around the world.

Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and form it into 1-inch balls.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the falafel for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain the falafel on paper towels.
7. Serve the falafel with the tahini sauce and pita bread.

Why It Works

• Soaking the chickpeas overnight helps to soften them and make them easier to digest.
• Using a food processor to grind the chickpeas ensures that they are evenly chopped and will produce a smooth falafel.
• Adding spices like cumin and coriander to the falafel mixture gives them a delicious flavor.
• Frying the falafel in hot oil creates a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
• Serving the falafel with tahini sauce and pita bread provides a delicious and complete meal.