Best 2 Chef Johns Falafel Recipes

Falafel, a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delicacy, are deep-fried balls or patties made from chickpeas or fava beans. They are a popular street food and are often served in pita bread with hummus, tahini, and vegetables. Falafel is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. This article provides three delicious falafel recipes: a classic falafel recipe, a baked falafel recipe, and a green falafel recipe. The classic falafel recipe uses chickpeas, while the baked falafel recipe uses a combination of chickpeas and fava beans. The green falafel recipe uses a mixture of chickpeas, spinach, and herbs. All three recipes are easy to follow and result in delicious and authentic falafel. Whether you are a falafel aficionado or new to this delectable dish, these recipes will provide you with the perfect introduction to the world of falafel.

Let's cook with our recipes!

FALAFEL RECIPE

Falafel Recipe image

One of the incredible street foods of the Middle Eastern world, this falafel recipe is the authentic one to try.

Provided by Chef Tariq

Categories Mezze

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

2 cup Chickpeas (dried, soaked overnight)
¼ cup Cilantro (finely chopped)
¼ cup Parsley (finely chopped)
2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
1 tsp Coriander (ground)
1 tsp Cumin (ground)
1 tbsp Lemon Juice (ground)
½ tsp Salt
1 tbsp Olive Oil
½ tsp Baking Soda
½ tsp Baking Powder
1 tbsp Vinegar
1½ tbsp Tahini
1 Hot Chili Pepper
½ Onion
Vegetable Oil for Deep Frying

Steps:

Soak chickpeas overnight in a generous amount of water.
Drain chickpeas and add to a food processor.
Add all other ingredients to the chickpeas.
Process until well mixed and mixture resembles coarse wet sand.
Use a falafel scooper or shape into balls using your hands.
Deep fry until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
Serve while hot.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 47 kcal, Carbohydrate 6 g, Protein 2 g, Fat 2 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 109 mg, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 1 g, UnsaturatedFat 2 g, ServingSize 1 serving

JEANIE'S FALAFEL

Jeanie's Falafel image

This is a tasty dense falafel that contains no eggs. Serve on pitas with tzatziki or tahini sauce with lettuce and tomato.

Provided by JeanieMomof3

Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Greek

Time 32m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 (19 ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons ground cumin
⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup fine dry bread crumbs
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cracked black peppercorns
1 quart vegetable oil for frying

Steps:

Mash the garbanzo beans in a large bowl. Stir in the onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, cumin, turmeric, baking powder, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Do not be afraid to use your hands. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls; you should get 18 to 24. If the mixture does not hold together, add a little water.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil, and fry until brown. If you do not have a deep fryer, heat the oil in a heavy deep skillet over medium-high heat. You may need to adjust the heat slightly after the first couple of falafels, and be sure to turn frequently so they brown evenly.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 317.4 calories, Carbohydrate 35.2 g, Fat 16.8 g, Fiber 5.1 g, Protein 7.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 723.9 mg, Sugar 1.7 g

Tips:

Soak the chickpeas overnight: This will help them cook more evenly and develop a creamier texture.
Use a food processor to grind the chickpeas: This will give you a finer texture and help the falafel hold together better.
Add plenty of herbs and spices: This will give your falafel lots of flavor. Some good options include parsley, cilantro, cumin, and coriander.
Don't overmix the falafel mixture: Overmixing will make the falafel tough.
Use a wet spoon to scoop the falafel mixture into the hot oil: This will help prevent the falafel from sticking to the spoon.
Fry the falafel until they are golden brown and crispy: This will ensure that they are cooked through and have a delicious flavor.
Serve the falafel hot with your favorite dipping sauce: Tahini sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try yogurt sauce, hummus, or baba ganoush.

Conclusion:

Chef John's falafel recipe is a great way to make this delicious Middle Eastern dish at home. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. So next time you're looking for a tasty and satisfying vegetarian meal, give Chef John's falafel a try. You won't be disappointed!