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The Best Way to Cook Falafels

Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and then deep-fried or baked. These crispy and flavorful balls are not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber. If you want to learn how to cook falafels the best way, follow these simple steps.

1. Soak and Cook the Chickpeas

The first step in making falafels is to soak the chickpeas overnight or for at least 8 hours. This helps to soften them and make them easier to blend. Once soaked, drain the chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. Then, cook the chickpeas in boiling water until they are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic cloves, fresh parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it is well combined but still slightly chunky. You want the mixture to hold together but not be completely smooth.

3. Let the Mixture Rest

Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.

4. Shape the Falafel Balls

After the mixture has rested, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties. You can use your hands or a falafel scoop to ensure that each ball is the same size. Place the shaped falafels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Cook the Falafels

There are two main methods for cooking falafels: deep-frying and baking. Deep-frying yields a crispy exterior, while baking is a healthier option.

If you choose to deep-fry, heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the falafel balls into the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafels from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

If you prefer to bake the falafels, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the falafels with a little bit of olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the falafels hot with your choice of accompaniments. They are traditionally served in pita bread with tahini sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickles. You can also enjoy them on a salad or as a protein-packed snack.

Now that you know the best way to cook falafels, you can impress your family and friends with this delicious and nutritious Middle Eastern dish. Whether you choose to deep-fry or bake them, these falafels are sure to be a hit!

The Best Way to Make Falafels

Blog, Food

Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and then deep-fried to perfection. These delicious and nutritious vegetarian patties are enjoyed around the world for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. If you’re looking to make falafels at home, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

1. Soak and Cook the Chickpeas

The key to a successful falafel is starting with dried chickpeas instead of canned ones. Soak the chickpeas overnight in water to soften them. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before using. Cooking the chickpeas until they are tender but not mushy is crucial to achieving the right texture for your falafels.

2. Use Fresh Herbs and Spices

Falafels get their distinct flavor from a combination of fresh herbs and spices. Traditional ingredients include parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Using fresh herbs and spices will enhance the taste and aroma of your falafels.

3. Add Binders for Texture

To ensure that your falafels hold their shape and have a crispy exterior, you need to add binders to the mixture. Traditional binders include flour or breadcrumbs, which help absorb moisture and bind the ingredients together. You can also use chickpea flour or a combination of flour and breadcrumbs for added texture.

4. Don’t Overprocess the Mixture

When blending the ingredients for your falafels, be careful not to overprocess the mixture. The goal is to achieve a coarse texture with small chunks of chickpeas and herbs. Overprocessing can result in a dense and mushy falafel, so pulse the ingredients in a food processor until they are well combined but still have some texture.

5. Let the Mixture Rest

After you’ve blended the ingredients, let the falafel mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the mixture to firm up. Chilling the mixture also makes it easier to shape into patties without falling apart during frying.

6. Fry to Perfection

When it comes to frying falafels, the oil temperature is crucial. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the falafels. Fry them in small batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy falafels.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once your falafels are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with your favorite accompaniments. Traditional serving options include pita bread, tahini sauce, hummus, pickles, and fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make delicious falafels at home. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own unique twist on this classic Middle Eastern dish. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, in a pita sandwich, or as part of a mezze platter, falafels are sure to delight your taste buds.