Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is enjoyed around the world for its crispy texture and flavorful taste. Made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, falafel is a great vegetarian option for anyone looking to switch up their meal routine. In this blog post, we will show you how to make falafel at home with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain and rinse them the next day.
- In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas until they are coarsely ground.
- Add the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and baking powder to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and forms a coarse paste.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove the falafel from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain off excess oil.
- Serve the falafel hot with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, and your favorite vegetables.
Making falafel at home is a fun and rewarding way to bring the flavors of the Middle East into your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that will impress your family and friends. So go ahead and give it a try!
History of Falafel
Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The origins of falafel are somewhat debated, but it is widely believed to have originated in Egypt or Palestine. Some historians believe that the dish may have been invented by the ancient Egyptians, who were known for their use of legumes in their cuisine.
In the Middle Ages, falafel spread throughout the Middle East and became a popular street food, especially in Egypt and Syria. It was a common food for travelers and pilgrims, as it was easy to carry and provided a good source of nutrition.
The modern version of falafel that we know today is believed to have been developed in the early 20th century in Egypt. At this time, the dish was made with fava beans, but chickpeas soon became a popular alternative. Falafel’s popularity continued to grow in the 1960s and 1970s as it became a popular food among vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
Today, falafel is enjoyed around the world and has become a popular street food in many cities. It is commonly served in pita bread with tahini sauce, hummus, and a variety of vegetables. Whether you are a lifelong fan or new to the dish, falafel is a delicious and nutritious way to explore Middle Eastern cuisine.
Why Falafel is a Nutritious Addition to Your Diet
Falafel is not only a delicious and satisfying dish, but it also has a number of nutritional benefits. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of falafel:
- High in protein: Falafel is made from chickpeas, which are a great source of plant-based protein. A 3.5-ounce serving of falafel contains approximately 13 grams of protein, making it an excellent vegetarian option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich in fiber: Chickpeas are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease. A 3.5-ounce serving of falafel contains approximately 5 grams of fiber.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals: Falafel is made with a variety of herbs and spices, which not only add flavor but also provide important vitamins and minerals. For example, parsley and cilantro are rich in vitamin K and vitamin C, while cumin and coriander are good sources of iron, manganese, and calcium.
- Low in fat: Falafel is typically fried in oil, which can add extra calories and fat. However, when prepared in a healthy way, falafel can be a low-fat and nutritious option. Baking or air frying the falafel instead of deep frying can help reduce the fat content.
Overall, falafel is a healthy and flavorful dish that is packed with nutrients. Whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based foods to your diet, falafel is a great choice for a satisfying and nutritious meal.