Falafel

Instructions

Step 1

Add the dried chickpeas and fava beans in a large bowl. Cover with water and add a teaspoon of salt to help reduce bitterness. Leave to soak overnight to allow the beans to soften.

The next day, rinse the beans and peel the fava beans skin.

Now that they are soft, the skin will come off easily, but if you don't want to bother with it you can buy pre-peeled fava beans instead. They are not as commonly stocked though, so you may have to look for them in specialized stores.

Step 2

Take your trusty blender and blitz onion, garlic and the fresh herbs. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Now, blitz the beans. You don't want a super smooth texture here, but rather aim for a coarse and chunky dough with small bits.

Add the bean dough to the bowl and mix it with the other ingredients evenly.

As you mix, you can sprinkle in the spices, seeds, salt, and the extra virgin olive oil. Aim for a compact yet pliable texture.

Pop the mixture in the fridge for one hour.

Step 3

Heat up enough vegetable oil for deep frying.

You want to keep the oil at a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C), so don't cook more than 4 or 5 falafels at a time to keep the temperature under control.

Shape the falafels into golf-sized balls using a spoon and your hands.

Fry the falafels for around 5-8 minutes or until golden brown, and prepare the next batch while you wait.

Step 4

Once ready, you can eat falafels on their own or serve them in pita bread with some hummus and fresh vegetables like pickled carrots, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Goes well with

If you are looking for a comfy dish to pair with my Falafels, I recommend you give this Arabic fava beans soup (Foul Moudamas) a go!

FAQ

What is Lebanese falafel made from?


Lebanese falafel is made from a blend of dried chickpeas and fava beans, which are soaked overnight, then mixed with garlic, red onion, fresh parsley, fresh coriander, and spices like 7-Spice mix and chili powder. The mixture is then shaped into balls and fried until golden brown.

How do you prepare the beans for falafel?


To prepare the beans, you need to soak dried chickpeas and fava beans in water overnight with a teaspoon of salt to reduce bitterness. The next day, rinse the beans and peel the fava beans' skin, which can be easily removed after soaking.

Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?


No, it's recommended to use dried chickpeas and fava beans for authentic texture and flavor. Canned beans contain too much moisture, which can prevent the falafel from forming correctly and result in a mushy texture.

What spices are used in Lebanese falafel?


The key spices used in Lebanese falafel include a 7-Spice mix, which typically contains a combination of allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and fenugreek. Optional chili powder can also be added for heat.

How do you shape and fry falafel?


After the mixture has been refrigerated for about an hour, shape the falafel into golf-sized balls using a spoon and your hands. Heat vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C) and fry the falafel balls in small batches for 5-8 minutes until they are golden brown.

What can you serve with Lebanese falafel?


Lebanese falafel is typically served in pita bread with hummus, pickled vegetables, tomatoes, and lettuce. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer, accompanied by tahini sauce or a fresh salad .

How do you store and reheat leftover falafel?


Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the falafel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the falafel soggy.

Is Lebanese falafel gluten-free?


Yes, traditional Lebanese falafel is gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the labels of any spices or additional ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Can falafel be baked instead of fried?


Yes, falafel can be baked as a healthier alternative, although the texture will differ. Place the falafel balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them with a little olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.

What is the nutritional value of Lebanese falafel?


A serving of five falafels contains approximately 70 calories, 2.5g of fat, 10.6g of carbohydrates, 2.5g of dietary fiber, and 3.8g of protein. It is also a good source of vitamin A, iron, and potassium.