CHICKPEA FALAFEL – PERFECT FOR VEGETARIANS AND FASTING PERIODS
These crispy, flavorful chickpea falafels are ideal for vegetarians or during fasting seasons. Serve them in flatbreads alongside fresh salads like fattoush, pickled vegetables (especially spicy peppers), grilled veggies, tahini sauce, and hummus for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes + soaking
🍳 Cook Time: 5 minutes per batch
🍽️ Yields: About 30 falafels
Ingredients
- 200 g dried chickpeas
- 2 slices white bread, crust removed
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (level)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp turmeric (or ½ tsp sweet paprika)
- Chili flakes to taste (about 4-5 grinds)
- 1 tsp baking soda (level)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak chickpeas in plenty of water overnight or for at least 4 hours.
- Drain chickpeas and pulse finely in a food processor until a coarse paste forms.
- Add flour, crumbled bread, chopped onion, garlic, and parsley. Add spices and salt. Process again until mixture forms a pasty consistency that sticks together (you should see the mixture sticking to the bowl).
- Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to firm up.
- Form small balls from the mixture using your hands.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test oil temperature by sprinkling a pinch of flour; it should sizzle immediately.
- Lower heat to medium-low and fry falafels in batches until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
💡 Tips
- Do not cook chickpeas before processing; use raw soaked chickpeas for the best texture.
- Keep oil temperature moderate to cook falafels evenly without burning.
- Adding sesame seeds gives extra crunch and flavor but is optional.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
🎉 Perfect For
- Vegetarian and vegan meals
- Middle Eastern inspired lunches or dinners
- Healthy snacks or appetizers
📝 Final Thoughts
This chickpea falafel recipe offers a deliciously crispy and spiced vegetarian option, packed with herbs and spices. Paired with fresh salads, pickles, and creamy tahini, it creates a satisfying and wholesome meal perfect for any season.