Falafel (Chickpea Fritters)
Middle Eastern falafel: fritters of raw blended chickpeas with garlic, onion and fresh herbs, crisp outside and soft inside. 100% plant-based, served in pita with hummus and salad, or over greens.
Ingredients
- 250 g dried chickpeas (soaked 12 h, uncooked)
- 1 onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch parsley
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tbsp chickpea flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- Salt, pepper
- Oil for cooking
Method
- 1Blend the soaked (raw) chickpeas with the onion, garlic and herbs, without making too fine a purée.
- 2Add the spices, chickpea flour, baking soda, salt and pepper.
- 3Rest the mix 30 minutes in the fridge.
- 4Shape small balls or patties.
- 5Fry in hot oil (170 °C) 3–4 minutes until deep golden.
- 6Drain on paper towel.
- 7Serve hot with hummus, tahini sauce and salad.
Tips & tricks
- Use soaked dried chickpeas (never canned): the texture depends on it.
- Baking soda makes the falafel lighter.
- Oven-baking (200 °C, 25 min) works for a lighter version.
Variations
- With beetroot for a pretty colour.
- Chickpea + fava bean, as in Egypt.
Storage
2–3 days refrigerated; reheat in the oven. Freeze raw.
Nutrition (per serving)
Ingredient substitutions
- Wheat flour : a gluten-free flour blend (rice + buckwheat) or ground almonds.
What to serve it with
- A dressed green salad
- Fresh bread or a starchy side
- Roasted seasonal vegetables
- A wine matched to the dish (to taste)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to make "Falafel (Chickpea Fritters)"?
Allow about 20 min of prep and 10 min of cooking, i.e. 30 min in total for 4 servings.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Its difficulty is "Medium". Following the steps in order and our tips, it stays accessible.
Can I make "Falafel (Chickpea Fritters)" ahead and store it?
2–3 days refrigerated; reheat in the oven. Freeze raw.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The quantities are for 4 servings. To adjust, simply multiply or divide the ingredients by the number of guests.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, "Falafel (Chickpea Fritters)" is 100% vegan: it contains no animal products.
How many calories per serving?
One serving provides about 290 kcal, including 12 g of protein, 30 g of carbs and 12 g of fat.
