Why Make This Recipe
Making a Middle Eastern vegan falafel platter is a great choice for many reasons. First, falafels are packed with protein and fiber, making them a filling meal or snack. This platter is also completely vegan, which means it’s suitable for different diets. Plus, it’s colorful, fresh, and fun to eat! You can enjoy this platter on its own or share it at a gathering. It’s a healthy and tasty option that everyone will love.
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
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Prepare the chickpeas: Soak dried chickpeas overnight or use canned ones for convenience. If you choose dried chickpeas, make sure to drain and rinse them before mixing.
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Blend the mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked or canned chickpeas, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, spices, and baking powder. Pulse the mixture until it’s coarse but holds together when formed into balls.
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Chill the mixture: Scoop the blended falafel mixture into a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up for easier shaping.
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Shape the falafel: Once chilled, form the mixture into uniform balls or patties about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. This will help them cook evenly.
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Choose your cooking method: For frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and carefully add the falafel balls. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the falafels with oil and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and browned.
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Make the tahini sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, and water until it is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the amount of water to get your desired consistency and season with salt to taste.
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Assemble your platter: Serve the freshly cooked falafel with warm pita bread, an assortment of fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce either on top or on the side.
How to Serve Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
To serve your falafel platter, arrange the falafel balls on a large plate or platter. Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and onion around them. Place your warm pita bread in the center and serve the tahini sauce on the side. This makes it easy for everyone to build their own wraps or enjoy each component 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 to restore some crispiness. The tahini sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips to Make Savor the Best Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Ever
- Soaking Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, remember to soak them overnight for the best texture.
- Avoid Over-Blending: Be careful not to over-blend the mixture. You want it coarse enough to hold its shape.
- Experiment With Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste or add additional herbs for a unique flavor.
Variation
For a spicy kick, you can add a chopped jalapeño or some cayenne pepper to the falafel mixture. If you want to make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pita or serve it with a salad instead.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, using canned chickpeas is perfectly fine and saves time. Just drain and rinse them before use.
2. Can I bake the falafel instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option. Just make sure to brush them lightly with oil for crispiness.
3. How do I know when the falafels are done?
Falafels are done when they are golden brown on the outside. If frying, they should take about 3-4 minutes per side. If baking, check after 25 minutes.
Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy and colorful vegan falafel platter packed with protein and fiber, perfect for meals or gatherings.
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
- Prepare the chickpeas: Soak dried chickpeas overnight or use canned ones for convenience. If using dried, drain and rinse before mixing.
- Blend the mixture: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, spices, and baking powder. Pulse until coarse but holds together.
- Chill the mixture: Scoop falafel mixture into a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Shape the falafel: Form mixture into uniform balls or patties about 1-1.5 inches wide.
- Choose your cooking method: For frying, heat oil and fry falafel balls for 3-4 minutes per side. For baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), brush with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make the tahini sauce: Whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency with more water if needed and season with salt.
- Assemble your platter: Serve falafel with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce, allowing everyone to build their own wraps.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tahini sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern