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Homemade BEST Authentic Falafel photo

BEST Authentic Falafel

This BEST Authentic Falafel is a crunchy delight! Freshly made with dried chickpeas and zesty spices, it’s perfect in wraps or with dipping sauces.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Falafel:
  • 2 cups dried garbanzo beans/chickpeas
  • 2 teaspoons whole cumin seeds or 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds or 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 preserved lemon pulp discarded, mince the peel
  • 1/3 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Oil for frying high smoke point, like avocado or canola

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Large bowl
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas - Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas in a large bowl of water. Make sure to cover them with several inches of water, as they will expand. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
  2. Step 2: Toast the Spices - In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the whole cumin and coriander seeds for about 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant. Allow them to cool slightly, then grind until fine.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Falafel Mixture - Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to your food processor along with the toasted spices, chopped onion, minced garlic, preserved lemon, parsley, cilantro, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Process until well combined but still slightly coarse.
  4. Step 4: Form the Falafel Balls - Using your hands, form the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Step 5: Fry the Falafel - Heat about 2 inches of oil in your frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the falafel balls, a few at a time. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauces - Serve your BEST Authentic Falafel warm with homemade creamy hummus or a tangy preserved lemon cilantro yogurt sauce.

Notes

  • Let the falafel cool completely on paper towels before storing.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in an air fryer or hot oven to restore crispiness.