Mediterranean > Middle Eastern

Falafel Pita Pockets with Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt

Special equipment needed:
- Small saucepan
- Mason jar or other airtight container

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar and salt are dissolved.

2. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

3. Place thinly sliced red onions in a mason jar or other airtight container.

4. Pour the pickling liquid over the onions, making sure they are completely covered.

5. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 660mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chickpeas can be substituted with any other type of bean.
- Fresh parsley and cilantro can be substituted with dried herbs.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with chickpea flour or any other type of flour.
- Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white vinegar or rice vinegar.

Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce to the pita pockets for added freshness.
- Serve falafel on a bed of greens with pickled red onions and a drizzle of tahini dressing.
- Make a spicy version of the falafel by adding more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeno pepper to the mixture.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas well before using.
- Don't over-process the falafel mixture in the food processor, as it will become too mushy.
- Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent the falafel from sticking.

Storage instructions:
- Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat falafel, place in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve falafel pita pockets on a platter with a side of hummus and fresh vegetables.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
- Drizzle with tahini dressing or hot sauce.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of tabbouleh salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus
- Baba ganoush
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the falafel mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the falafel patties are falling apart in the skillet, add more flour to the mixture.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the falafel patties until they are golden brown and crispy to ensure they are cooked through.

Food history:
- Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. It is often served in pita pockets with vegetables and sauces.

Flavor profiles:
- Falafel has a nutty and slightly spicy flavor, with hints of cumin and coriander.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve falafel pita pockets with a side of hummus and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

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Region: Middle Eastern

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Herby, Crunchy