Falafel

Falafel

فلافل (fah-LAH-fel)

Fried Chickpea Fritters

Prep Time 30 min + soaking
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 352 kcal

Crispy, herb-flecked chickpea fritters fried to a deep golden crust with a vivid green, moist interior. Jordanian falafel is a daily staple served in warm pita with tahini, pickles, and fresh vegetables.

Nutrition & Info

340 kcal per serving
Protein 14.0g
Carbs 38.0g
Fat 16.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ sesame

Equipment Needed

food processor deep fryer or heavy pot slotted spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: pita wrap or plate

Garnishes: pickled turnips, fresh mint

Accompaniments: tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, tomato-cucumber salad

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak dried chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. Drain thoroughly. Never use canned chickpeas as they are too soft and the falafel will fall apart.

  2. 2

    Process soaked chickpeas, onion, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne, and salt in a food processor until finely ground but not a paste.

  3. 3

    Transfer mixture to a bowl, add baking powder, and mix well. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture for easier shaping.

  4. 4

    Form mixture into small patties or balls about 4cm wide. Roll each one lightly in sesame seeds for an extra crunchy coating.

  5. 5

    Heat oil to 175C. Fry falafel in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain on paper towels.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately in warm pita bread with tahini sauce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled turnips, and a drizzle of hot sauce.

💡

Did You Know?

Jordanian falafel shops are judged by the color of their fritters — the ideal is a deep bronze exterior that cracks to reveal a bright green interior.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • food processor
  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • slotted spoon

Garnishing

pickled turnips, fresh mint

Accompaniments

tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, tomato-cucumber salad

The Story Behind Falafel

Falafel is deeply embedded in Jordanian daily life, served at countless street carts and small shops from Amman to Aqaba. While the origins of falafel are debated across the region, in Jordan it has become an essential part of the national food identity. Jordanian-style falafel tends to be made exclusively from chickpeas, unlike the fava bean versions found in Egypt. The morning falafel sandwich wrapped in fresh taboon bread is a ritual for millions of Jordanians starting their day.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast, lunch, street food 📜 Origins: Ancient Egyptian-Levantine

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