Nani’s Favorite Homemade Falafel
These crispy, herb packed falafel balls are a family favorite that brings the delicious taste of a Mediterranean cafe into your own kitchen.
recipesbynani.comI have always loved falafel, but after marrying someone who orders it every chance he gets, I knew I had to master a homemade version. This recipe is all about the fresh herbs, so we use plenty of parsley and cilantro, along with garlic and bright lemon to get that perfect flavor.
While deep frying gives you the best golden crust, these turn out great even if you choose to pan fry or use your air fryer. Just make sure to have your pita, veggies, and sauces ready to go because these are best served while they are still hot and crispy.
🧺 Ingredients
- 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Place the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, and garlic into a food processor.
- 2
Pulse the mixture until it is finely minced but not a smooth paste. It should hold together when you pinch it.
- 3
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the lemon juice, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
- 4
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- 5
Form the mixture into small balls or patties using your hands or a scoop.
- 6
Heat a few inches of oil in a deep pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7
Fry the falafel in small batches for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are a deep golden brown.
- 8
Remove the falafel with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel before serving.
💡 Tips
Serve these warm inside a pita with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini sauce. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat them in the oven to keep them crisp.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
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