A step-by-step guide to making crispy falafel balls at home
Falafel, a cherished Middle Eastern specialty, delights with its crispy exterior and richly spiced interior. Composed of ground chickpeas or fava beans, this vegetarian dish is often tucked into pita bread or served over greens. With roots in Egypt, falafel enjoys cultural prominence across the Middle East. Now, let's embark on the journey to make these delectable balls.
Gather the following ingredients
To make falafel balls, you will need two cups of dried chickpeas (soaked overnight), one small onion (roughly chopped), two cloves of garlic (minced), one-fourth cup of fresh parsley (chopped), one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of ground coriander, one-half teaspoon of salt, one-quarter teaspoon of black pepper, one-half teaspoon of baking soda, and oil for frying.
Preparing the falafel mixture
After draining the chickpeas that have been soaked overnight, place them into a food processor. Add in the roughly chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and the spices: ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture until it becomes coarse yet holds together when pressed without turning into a paste; this consistency is key for ideal falafel balls.
Shaping and resting
Once the chickpea mixture is ready, transfer it to a bowl and gently fold in the baking soda. Allow this to sit for about fifteen minutes, giving time for the flavors to integrate fully. During this resting period, line a tray with parchment paper. With hands slightly moistened, shape the rested mixture into compact balls or patties, each roughly the size of a walnut.
Frying to perfection
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it's hot but not smoking. Gently place several falafel balls into the oil, being careful to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they're evenly golden brown and fully cooked on the inside, which should take about four to five minutes per batch. Rotate them occasionally for consistent cooking and color.
Serving suggestions
Savor the hot, crispy falafel balls wrapped in soft pita bread with a drizzle of tahini sauce or smooth hummus. Pair them with fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers for a genuine Middle Eastern flair. These falafels can also be a standout addition to salads or served as appetizers, complemented by a variety of dipping sauces.
