How Are Falafels Made?

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzos, are the main ingredient in falafel.

Falafel, associated with Middle Eastern and Israeli cuisine, is made of ground chickpeas mixed with herbs and other vegetables. The mixture is shaped into balls or disks and fried. As street food, falafel is often served in pita bread with diced vegetables and tahini, tatziki or hot harissa sauce.

Start With Dried or Canned Garbanzo Beans

Chef Michael Skibitcky of the Culinary Institute of America advises that you soak dried garbanzos in water overnight before cooking. You can also use canned garbanzo beans. Beans must be drained before putting them in a food processor.

Add Onion, Garlic and Herbs

Dice the onion, crush the garlic and finely chop parsley, cilantro and other fresh herbs. Dried ground coriander, cumin and hot peppers can be added to taste. In a food processor, grind garbanzo beans, herbs, spices and seasonings to the texture of bread crumbs.

Shape and Fry

Use special scoops made for shaping falafel, or you can use two teaspoons to make 1-inch balls or flat disks. In a shallow skillet, fry shaped falafel for one to two minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, taking care not to crowd or burn them.

References

• Epicurious: Israeli Falafel Recipe