Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan or deep fryer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor or blender. Pulse until the chickpeas are finely chopped but not pureed.
2. Transfer the chopped chickpeas to a large mixing bowl and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the falafel patties to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
5. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the patties from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking time for chickpeas)
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for frying
Serving size:
- Makes about 20 falafel patties
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80 per patty
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use canned chickpeas instead of dried, but the texture may be slightly different.
- You can substitute other herbs or spices for the parsley, cilantro, cumin, and coriander if desired.
Variations:
- You can add grated carrot, zucchini, or sweet potato to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- You can make larger patties and serve them as a vegetarian burger.
- You can stuff the patties with feta cheese or other fillings before frying.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas well before using them.
- Don't over-process the chickpeas or the mixture will be too smooth and won't hold together well.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
Storage instructions:
- The falafel patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the patties, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the falafel patties on a bed of lettuce or in a pita pocket with hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce.
Garnishes:
- Top the patties with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, or olives for added flavor and texture.
Pairings:
- Serve the falafel patties with a side of tabbouleh salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus, baba ghanoush, or tzatziki
- Pita bread or naan
- Greek salad or tabbouleh
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the patties are falling apart in the oil, the mixture may be too wet. Add a little flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
- If the patties are too dry, add a little water or lemon juice to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the falafel patties to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
- Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are shaped into balls or patties and fried or baked.
Flavor profiles:
- The falafel patties are savory and slightly spicy, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the falafel patties as a vegetarian main dish or as a snack or appetizer.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A