Why Make This Recipe
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a staple for vegans and non-vegans alike. It is made from chickpeas and a blend of fresh herbs and spices, which offer both flavor and nutrition. This vegan falafel platter is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s a perfect dish for sharing with friends, family, or enjoying as a wholesome meal on your own.
How to Make Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpeas
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro)
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp spices (cumin, coriander, salt, pepper)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup tahini paste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 pita bread or gluten-free alternative
- 1 cup fresh vegetables (tomato, cucumber, lettuce, onion slices)
- Oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Directions
- Prepare the chickpeas: Soak dried chickpeas overnight or use canned for convenience. If using dried, drain and rinse them before starting on your falafel mix.
- Blend the mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked or canned chickpeas, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, spices, and baking powder. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together when formed into balls.
- Chill the mixture: Scoop the blended falafel mixture into a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help firm it up for easier shaping.
- Shape the falafel: Once chilled, form the falafel mixture into uniform balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter—this will help them cook evenly.
- Choose your cooking method: For frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and carefully add the falafel balls. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush falafel with oil, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until crisp and browned.
- Make the tahini sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, and water until smooth and creamy. Adjust the water to reach your desired consistency and season with salt to taste.
- Assemble your platter: Serve freshly cooked falafel with warm pita bread, an assortment of fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce on top or on the side.
How to Serve Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
To serve your falafel platter, place the warm falafel balls in the center of a large plate or platter. Surround them with fresh vegetables like sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. Spread out the pita bread and place a bowl of tahini sauce nearby. This makes it easy for everyone to build their own falafel wraps or enjoy the components separately.
How to Store Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
If you have leftovers, store the falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on a skillet for the best results. The tahini sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just stir it well before using.
Tips to Make Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
- Make sure the chickpeas are properly soaked or well-drained if using canned to avoid a watery mixture.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the falafel hold together while cooking.
- For extra flavor, experiment with spices like paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- To keep it crispy if baking, use a light brushing of oil.
Variation
You can add other herbs like mint for extra freshness or use different beans like black beans for a twist. Consider adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor further.
FAQs
Can I make falafel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Is falafel gluten-free?
Yes, falafel is naturally gluten-free, especially when served with gluten-free pita bread or lettuce wraps.
Can I freeze falafel?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked falafel balls. Just shape them and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Cook them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delicious and easy-to-prepare vegan falafel platter made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpeas
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro)
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp spices (cumin, coriander, salt, pepper)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup tahini paste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 pita bread or gluten-free alternative
- 1 cup fresh vegetables (tomato, cucumber, lettuce, onion slices)
- Oil (for frying or brushing if baking)
Instructions
- Soak dried chickpeas overnight or use canned. If using dried, drain and rinse before mixing.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, spices, and baking powder. Pulse until coarse.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Form the chilled mixture into uniform balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- For frying, heat oil in a skillet, add the falafel balls, and fry for 3-4 minutes per side. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), brush falafel with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a bowl, whisk tahini paste, lemon juice, and water until smooth and creamy. Adjust water for desired consistency and season with salt.
- Serve falafel with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce.
Notes
For extra flavor, experiment with spices and don’t skip the chilling step for better shape during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern