Ingredients
2 cups dried chickpeas (do not use canned or cooked chickpeas)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup fresh parsley leaves, stems removed
3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, stems removed
1/2 cup fresh dill, stems removed
1 small onion, quartered
7 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Oil for frying (enough to fill a medium saucepan about 3 inches deep)
Pita pockets (quantity as needed)
Chopped or diced English cucumbers (quantity as desired)
Chopped or diced tomatoes (quantity as desired)
Baby arugula (quantity as desired)
Pickles (quantity as desired)
Instructions
1-First Steps: Soaking and Mixing: Begin by soaking 2 cups of dried chickpeas with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in water that covers them by at least 2 inches for 18 to 24 hours. After soaking, drain and pat dry the chickpeas to remove excess moisture. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, 1 cup fresh parsley leaves (stems removed), 3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (stems removed), 1/2 cup fresh dill (stems removed), 1 small onion (quartered), 7 to 8 garlic cloves (peeled), salt to taste, 1 tablespoon ground black pepper, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 tablespoon ground coriander, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using). Pulse until the mixture is coarse and well combined.
2-Chilling and Shaping: Transfer the mixture to a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to help it firm up. Before cooking, stir in 1 teaspoon baking powder and 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds for a fluffy interior. Form the mixture into 1/2-inch thick patties or balls, using wet hands to prevent sticking and ensure even shapes.
3-Cooking Methods: For frying, heat oil in a medium saucepan to about 3 inches deep over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the patties in batches for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Baking alternative method: This method creates that crave-worthy crunch, but if you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, lightly oil a baking sheet, and brush the patties with olive oil. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through and lightly browned.
Last Step:
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๐พ Use dried chickpeas soaked 18 to 24 hours for best texture and binding.
๐ฅ Fry in oil at 375ยฐF and avoid overcrowding to maintain crispiness.
โ๏ธ Shape patties and freeze uncooked for up to 1 month; cook from frozen by frying or baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Refrigeration Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 falafel patty
