Easy Homemade Falafel With Tahini Sauce Recipe

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, herbs, and spices. It is typically fried and served in a pita with tahini sauce, vegetables, and hummus. Falafel is a delicious and healthy vegetarian option that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

This recipe for homemade falafel is easy to follow and produces perfectly crispy and flavorful falafel balls. The tahini sauce is also easy to make and adds a creamy and nutty flavor to the falafel.

Homemade Falafel with Tahini Sauce Recipe

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, herbs, and spices. It is typically fried and served in a pita with tahini sauce, vegetables, and hummus. Falafel is a delicious and healthy vegetarian option that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

This recipe for homemade falafel is easy to follow and produces perfectly crispy and flavorful falafel balls. The tahini sauce is also easy to make and adds a creamy and nutty flavor to the falafel.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Tahini Sauce

  • 1/2 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

To Make the Falafel

  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and pulse until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into small balls.
  3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Fry the falafel balls in batches until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Drain on paper towels.

To Make the Tahini Sauce

  1. Whisk together all of the ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

To Assemble the Falafel

  1. Place a pita bread in the center of a plate.
  2. Top with falafel balls, vegetables, hummus, and tahini sauce.
  3. Enjoy!

Tips

  • Use high-quality chickpeas. Canned chickpeas can be used, but they may not be as flavorful as dried chickpeas that have been soaked and cooked.
  • Don’t overmix the falafel mixture. Overmixing will make the falafel tough.
  • Fry the falafel in hot oil. This will help them to cook evenly and become crispy.
  • Serve the falafel with your favorite toppings. Some popular toppings include tahini sauce, hummus, vegetables, and pita bread.

Enjoy your homemade falafel.

Nutritional Facts

Here are the nutritional facts for one serving of homemade falafel with tahini sauce:

  • Calories: 340
  • Fat: 18 grams
  • Saturated fat: 2 grams
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
  • Sodium: 440 milligrams
  • Carbohydrates: 38 grams
  • Fiber: 12 grams
  • Sugar: 2 grams
  • Protein: 12 grams

Cooking Time

  • Preparing the falafel mixture: 10 minutes
  • Forming the falafel balls: 5 minutes
  • Frying the falafel: 15 minutes
  • Making the tahini sauce: 5 minutes
  • Assembling the falafel: 5 minutes

Is Homemade Falafel With Tahini Sauce Recipe Healthy?

Homemade falafel with tahini sauce can be a healthy meal option, but it is important to consider the ingredients and cooking method used.

Falafel is made from chickpeas, which are a good source of protein and fiber. They are also a good source of iron and folate. Tahini sauce is made from sesame seeds, which are a good source of calcium and magnesium.

However, falafel is typically fried, which can add unhealthy fats to the dish. It is possible to make healthier falafel by baking or air-frying them instead of frying them.

Here are some tips for making your homemade falafel with tahini sauce recipe healthier:

  • Use a healthier oil for frying, such as olive oil or avocado oil.
  • Bake or air-fry your falafel instead of frying it.
  • Serve your falafel with healthy toppings, such as vegetables, hummus, and tahini sauce.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your falafel without feeling guilty.

Health Benefits Of Homemade Falafel With Tahini Sauce Recipe

Here are some of the health benefits of falafel:

  • Protein: Falafel is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
  • Fiber: Falafel is a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and promote gut health.
  • Iron: Falafel is a good source of iron, which is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
  • Folate: Falafel is a good source of folate, which is essential for pregnant women and their babies.
  • Calcium: Tahini sauce is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
  • Magnesium: Tahini sauce is a good source of magnesium, which is essential for muscle and nerve function.

However, falafel is typically fried, which can add unhealthy fats to the dish. It is possible to make healthier falafel by baking or air-frying them instead of frying them.

Conclusion

Homemade falafel with tahini sauce is a delicious and easy to make Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. The falafel are made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, and are then fried until golden brown and crispy. The tahini sauce is made from tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water, and is creamy and flavorful. Together, the falafel and tahini sauce make a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

FAQS

Can I use canned chickpeas for falafel?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas for falafel. However, it’s important to drain and rinse them thoroughly before using them in the recipe. Canned chickpeas might have a higher moisture content, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour or breadcrumbs accordingly for the right consistency.

Can I freeze falafel mixture or cooked falafel?

Yes, you can freeze falafel mixture or cooked falafel. To freeze the falafel mixture, shape it into patties or balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for long term storage. When you’re ready to cook them, simply thaw the falafel in the refrigerator and follow the cooking instructions. Cooked falafel can also be frozen in a similar manner and reheated when needed.

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