Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) dried chickpeas, soaked in cold water for 12-24 hours, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped (approx. 1 cup, 150g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (packed, approx. 50g) fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup (packed, approx. 50g) fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill your pot/pan at least 2-3 inches deep)
  • Pita bread (optional)
  • Tahini sauce (recipe or store-bought) (optional)
  • Hummus (optional)
  • Pickled vegetables (optional)
  • Salad (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of cold water. Soak for 12-24 hours. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
  2. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, flour, sesame seeds, cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but still has some texture. Avoid over-processing into a paste.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
  6. Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot or deep fryer until it is 2-3 inches deep. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  7. Carefully drop the falafel into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
  8. Fry for 3-5 minutes per batch, flipping occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This easy falafel recipe gives great results.
  9. Remove the falafel with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  10. Serve hot, either on their own, in pita bread with tahini sauce and your favorite toppings, or as part of a mezze platter. This falafel recipe is perfect for any occasion.