Crispy Classic Homemade Falafel

Easy Homemade Falafel Recipe Crispy Authentic

By Elara MaeveJuly 13, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some seriously tasty homemade falafel ? Honestly, who doesn't? This recipe delivers that perfect blend of crispiness and Middle Eastern spice that'll make your taste buds sing!

Brief Overview

Falafel, those delicious chickpea fritters , have a rich history in Middle Eastern cuisine . It is relatively simple, this recipe will take you about 12 hours 40 minutes including soaking time.

You will get around 20 amazing falafel.

Main Benefits

These little balls of joy are packed with protein and fibre. They are the perfect addition to any Vegetarian Falafel or Vegan Falafel Recipe meal.

This recipe is special because it skips canned chickpeas, making sure the authentic texture and flavour.

Falafel Ingredients You'll Need

Ready to get started on making this Falafel Easy Recipe ? First, grab your ingredients. To create these flavor packed little balls you'll need 1 cup of dried chickpeas, a small onion, fresh parsley and cilantro, garlic, water, flour, and an array of spices including cumin, coriander, baking soda, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

And of course, vegetable oil for frying!

Homemade Middle Eastern Food: Why This Recipe Rocks

This Falafel Recipe Authentic is more than just a recipe; it's a journey. I remember trying falafel for the first time at a local food market.

It was an explosion of flavours! It was that experience that inspired me to create my own version at home.

Using dried chickpeas instead of canned is a game changer!

Crispy Falafel and Serving Ideas

These crispy delights are incredibly versatile! Serve them in a Falafel Sandwich with all your favourite toppings. Alternatively you can serve with a fresh salad, or as a side with other Homemade Middle Eastern Food .

Enjoy!

Ingredients & Equipment for Killer Falafel

Okay, let's talk about what you'll need for the best homemade falafel ever. It's easier than you think! Trust me, even if you're a kitchen newbie, this falafel easy recipe is totally doable.

So put on some tunes and let's jump in.

Falafel Ingredients : What You Need

First up, the stars of the show, the Falafel Ingredients . Forget the canned stuff. Trust me on this one.

Dried Chickpeas (not canned!) : 1 cup (200g) . These need to be good quality. Look for ones that are uniform in size and colour.
Onion: 1 small (approx. 100g) , roughly chopped.
Fresh Parsley: 1/2 cup (approx. 30g) , roughly chopped.
Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup (approx. 15g) , roughly chopped. Some people hate cilantro. If that's you, just skip it or use more parsley.
Garlic: 3 cloves (approx. 9g) , minced.
Water: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (14g) . Or use chickpea flour for a vegan falafel recipe , or if you're gluten-free.
Ground Cumin: 1 1/2 teaspoons . It gives that Middle Eastern Cuisine vibe.
Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon .
Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon . This makes the falafel nice and fluffy.
Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional) . For a little kick.
Salt: 1 teaspoon , or to taste.
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon , or to taste.
Vegetable Oil: approx. 4 cups/950ml . For frying.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

Seasoning is key for Falafel Recipe Authentic . Cumin and coriander are essential. This spice combination is a winner. Also consider a pinch of cinnamon.

You know, to really ramp it up. Experiment! But start small.

Essential Tools for Frying Deliciousness

Right, let's talk kit. You don't need loads of fancy gadgets to whip up cracking chickpea fritters .

Food processor: This is a must for that perfect texture.
Deep fryer or a large pot: For frying that Fried Vegetarian Food .
Slotted spoon or spider: To get the vegetarian falafel out of the oil.
Thermometer (optional): Helps keep the oil at 350° F ( 175° C) .
Baking sheet lined with paper towels: To drain the excess oil.

Crispy & Classic: Your New Favourite Homemade Falafel

Oh my gosh, you guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of homemade falafel ? Honestly, this recipe is a game changer.

We're talking about fried vegetarian food that's crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. This will transport you straight to the Middle East.

This is a falafel easy recipe , even if you're a bit of a novice in the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just starting to explore the joys of cooking, this Vegetarian Falafel recipe is a must try!

Prep Like a Pro for Perfect Falafel

First things first, mise en place is key. Gather all your falafel ingredients before you even think about turning on the food processor.

Chop your parsley and cilantro. Mince that garlic. Everything should be ready to roll. Soaking the chickpeas is essential, and needs a minimum 12 hours soaking! This is crucial ! Set a timer.

You know? It’s easy to forget! It's also an important heads up, always use dried chickpeas, not canned ! If you don't, your falafel will be a soggy mess, trust me on this one.

I've been there, done that.

Frying Fantastic Falafel: A step-by-step Guide

Okay, let's get cooking!

Soak the chickpeas for at least 12 hours .
Pulse chickpeas, onion, herbs, and garlic in the food processor until coarse.
Add spices, flour, and baking soda. Pulse until just combined.
Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes .
Heat vegetable oil to 350° F ( 175° C) .
Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
Fry for 3- 5 minutes until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Make sure that you control the temperature of the oil constantly, as this is crucial to have a Fried Vegetarian Food which is properly cooked through!

Secret Tips for Falafel Perfection

Want to take your homemade falafel to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've learned along the way:

Don't overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
Chill the mixture! This prevents the falafel from falling apart.
Get the oil temperature just right 350° F ( 175° C) is the sweet spot.
Taste and adjust : Always taste the mixture before frying and adjust seasonings as needed.

If you are thinking of having a Falafel Sandwich , make sure that the rest of the Middle Eastern Cuisine ingredients, such as hummus and tahini, are just as good! It will make all the difference.

Honestly, homemade middle eastern food like this is just the best. You'll get to create an authentic Falafel Recipe Authentic version.

Who doesn't love some amazing Chickpea Fritters ? And guess what? It can be a Vegan Falafel Recipe ! This is such a great addition to your recipe repertoire.

Enjoy your Homemade Middle Eastern Food and share it with your friends and family. They'll absolutely love it!

Recipe Notes for your Homemade Falafel

These notes are your secret weapon. They will help you perfect your homemade falafel . You'll be a pro at this falafel easy recipe in no time.

Serving Suggestions for your Fried Vegetarian Food

Want to elevate your vegetarian falafel experience? Try plating your chickpea fritters with a drizzle of tahini. It makes it look fancy, you know? Add a sprinkle of paprika for extra flair.

Serve your falafel sandwich in warm pita bread. Pack it with fresh veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers. A side of creamy hummus or a refreshing cucumber salad is fab! A chilled glass of mint lemonade is the perfect beverage for this Middle Eastern cuisine .

Storage Tips for your Homemade Middle Eastern Food

Got leftover vegan falafel recipe mix? Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep it in an airtight container, alright? This prevents it from drying out.

You can also freeze uncooked falafel. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze. Transfer them to a freezer bag once they are solid.

These can last for up to 2 months, easy peasy! Reheat them in the oven or fry them straight from frozen.

Just add a few minutes of cooking time, yeah?

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick. It'll wake up your taste buds, for sure!

Swap out the parsley for fresh mint for a refreshing twist. Honestly, it's delicious! Use gluten-free flour, like chickpea flour, for a gluten-free version.

It's suitable for everyone. For a seasonal touch, add roasted red peppers in autumn or zucchini in summer for a nice Mediterranean taste.

Nutrition Basics

Each serving of your homemade falafel packs a nutritional punch. You know, it's roughly 350 calories per serving. They're packed with protein, about 15g, thanks to the chickpeas.

It also contains fibre which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

These little Falafel Ingredients are also rich in vitamins and minerals, bonus!. They’re a great source of iron and magnesium.

Honestly, you will enjoy this falafel recipe authentic dish and feel good eating it.

With these tips and tricks, your homemade falafel will be the talk of the town! Get ready to enjoy the best Middle Eastern Cuisine ever. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my homemade falafel falling apart when I fry them?

Nobody wants a falafel flop! The most common reasons are not chilling the mixture long enough, or the mixture being too wet. Ensure you chill the falafel mixture for at least 30 minutes before frying. If it still seems too wet, add a little more chickpea flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it holds its shape better.

Think of it like making a good cuppa, it all comes down to timing!

Can I bake homemade falafel instead of frying them? Is it healthier?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the formed falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. While they won't be quite as crispy, you'll save on calories.

Think of it as the difference between chips and baked crisps - still good, just a bit different.

What's the best way to store leftover falafel and how long will they last?

Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven, pan-fry them, or even microwave them (though they might lose some crispness). They taste like they're freshly made when toasted in a pan!

Can I make homemade falafel ahead of time?

You certainly can! The falafel mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it's best to form the falafel just before frying or baking to prevent them from drying out. This makes it a great option for dinner parties and potlucks!

I don't have fresh cilantro. Can I still make this homemade falafel recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you're not a fan of cilantro or don't have any on hand, simply omit it or substitute it with more parsley or another fresh herb like mint. The key is to maintain a good balance of flavour, so adjust the amount of other herbs accordingly.

It's all about making the recipe your own - a bit like adding your own twist to a classic Beatles song!

Is it possible to use a different type of flour, like almond flour, in this falafel recipe?

While you can experiment with other flours, chickpea flour (besan) or even all-purpose flour will give you the best results for binding the falafel. Almond flour may result in a more crumbly texture, so you might need to add a binding agent like an egg (though this will make it not vegan) or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 5 minutes).

Bear in mind the taste may change slightly, so play around and see what works best for you!