Name: Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas (or canned); 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Oil for frying; Pita bread, for serving; Tahini sauce, for drizzling; Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers), for serving

why make this recipe

Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter is a delightful and healthy dish that brings flavors from the heart of the Middle East right to your kitchen. It’s great for vegans and anyone looking for a protein-rich meal. With crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, and flavorful tahini sauce, this platter is both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a casual meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress!

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how to make Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

Ingredients:

1 cup dried chickpeas (or canned)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp baking powder
Oil for frying
Pita bread, for serving
Tahini sauce, for drizzling
Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers), for serving

Directions:

If using dried chickpeas, soak them in water overnight and then drain them. If you are using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them.
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Blend until the mixture is coarse and combined, but not pureed.
Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel until they are golden brown on all sides, for about 4-5 minutes.
Drain the falafel on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve the falafel in pita bread with tahini sauce and fresh vegetables.

how to serve Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

To serve your Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter, fill warm pita bread with the crispy falafel, drizzle with tahini sauce, and add fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. You can also serve it with a side of extra tahini for dipping or a refreshing salad. This way, everyone can customize their plate to their liking!

how to store Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

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 a skillet until they are warm and crispy again. Keep the fresh vegetables and tahini sauce separate until you are ready to enjoy them again.

tips to make Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

If you want extra crispy falafel, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
Don’t over-process the chickpea mixture; it should be a bit chunky.
Experiment with spices like chili powder or paprika for added flavor.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding ingredients like grated carrots or sweet potatoes to the falafel mixture for extra taste and nutrition. You can also try baking the falafel instead of frying for a healthier option.

FAQs

Can I freeze the falafel?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked falafel balls. Just shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?
Yes, you can substitute chickpeas with other beans like black beans or white beans. Just ensure that the texture is similar for the best results.

What can I serve with falafel besides pita?
Falafel goes well with salads, wraps, or as a topping for grain bowls. You can use it in various ways for a nutritious meal!