Discover the secret to making perfectly crispy and flavorful homemade falafel with this easy recipe. Made from ground chickpeas or fava beans and deep-fried to golden perfection, these delicious balls are commonly served in pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce. Ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this recipe is a must-try for falafel enthusiasts!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried chickpeas or fava beans (soaked overnight)

- 1 small onion, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

- 2 tablespoons flour (or as needed)

- Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas or fava beans. Place them in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Avoid over-processing to prevent a paste-like texture.

Mix Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the food processor. Pulse until well combined, but still a bit coarse.

Form the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Gradually add flour, mixing until the mixture holds together but is not too dry.

Shape the Falafel: Form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Falafel: Carefully place the falafel balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Drain and Serve: Remove the falafel with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot in pita bread with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini sauce.

Enjoy your homemade falafel!

Nutritional Values:

Chickpeas or Fava Beans:

   - Calories: 269

   - Protein: 15 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 45 grams

   - Fiber: 12 grams

   - Fat: 4 grams

Benefits:

   - High in protein and fiber, which aid in digestion and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

   - Rich in vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and magnesium, supporting overall health and energy levels.

Onion:

   - Calories: 44

   - Protein: 1 gram

   - Carbohydrates: 10 grams

   - Fiber: 1.5 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

   - Rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes skin health.

Garlic:

   - Calories: 4

   - Protein: 0.2 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Fiber: 0.1 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help boost the immune system.

   - Contains allicin, which may support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Parsley:

   - Calories: 11

   - Protein: 1 gram

   - Carbohydrates: 2 grams

   - Fiber: 1 gram

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - High in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and bone health.

   - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote overall wellness.

Cilantro:

   - Calories: 1

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Fiber: 0 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants and essential oils that may help with detoxification and digestion.

   - Provides a good amount of vitamin K, which supports bone health and blood clotting.

Cumin:

   - Calories: 8

   - Protein: 0.4 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Fiber: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.4 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains iron and antioxidants that support digestion and may boost the immune system.

   - May help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Coriander:

   - Calories: 5

   - Protein: 0.2 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Fiber: 0.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that can help support the immune system.

   - Contains vitamins A and C, which contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

Baking Powder:

   - Calories: 2

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams

   - Fiber: 0 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Primarily used as a leavening agent to help the falafel achieve a light and airy texture.

Flour:

   - Calories: 30

   - Protein: 1 gram

   - Carbohydrates: 6 grams

   - Fiber: 0 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

   - Used to bind the falafel mixture; however, whole-grain or alternative flours can provide additional nutrients and fiber.

Vegetable Oil:

   - Calories: 120

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Fiber: 0 grams

   - Fat: 14 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides a high source of energy and is used for frying to achieve a crispy texture. Opt for oils high in unsaturated fats for a healthier option.