Published 10/14/2024 Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this falafel recipe is perfect for falafel bowls, stuffing into pita bread, or topping on a salad like this Herby Cucumber Tomato Salad! We’ve been trying to perfect our own falafel recipe since I went to Israel in 2013, and finally did it! While a pre-made falafel mix is a great convenient option (trust us, we’re all about convenience as busy moms), they’re usually loaded with preservatives and lack that fresh, homemade taste. Not only that, making your own falafel allows you to customize the flavors to your liking (hello fresh herbs!). And the taste is just so dang GOOD 😋 We’ll never go back to the pre-made, store-bought version. Back to my trip to Israel. One of the things I did while in Tel Aviv, was take a cooking class from a local chef celebrity. One of the things on the menu was homemade falafel! The #1 thing I learned in that class? USE DRIED GARBANZO BEANS NOT CANNED. So, to make our falafel recipe all you gotta do is prep your garbanzo beans by soaking them in water and then put all your ingredients in a food processor. Process on high and then form them into balls and fry until a beautiful golden brown. We even tested these bad boys in the air fryer, so don’t you worry, we’ll share those instructions, too 🌈
Everything You Need to Make Falafel
Garbanzo beans: Use dry garbanzo beans instead of canned for the best texture and flavor. TRUST US ON THIS. Fresh herbs: We used fresh cilantro, parsley, and dill in this recipe for a bright and herby flavor. Spices: Paprika, ground coriander, cumin, sea salt, and ground black pepper add depth and warmth to the falafel. Baking powder: This helps the falafel hold its shape and stay light and fluffy on the inside. Baking soda: Similar to baking powder, this helps with texture and fluffiness. Lemon juice: A little acidity adds a bright and tangy touch to the falafel. Garlic cloves: Need we say more? Garlic is QUEEN for flavoring the falafel. Avocado oil: This oil has a high smoke point and adds a delicious flavor to the falafel. Food processor: Use this to blend all the ingredients together to create a smooth falafel mixture.
Can I use canned garbanzo beans for this recipe?
No. Do NOT use canned garbanzo beans for this recipe. We’ve tested this falafel with both beans, and the canned garbanzo beans leave you with mush — please don’t do this.
Can I use any herbs?
Feel free to use any herbs your heart desires or what is in season! we loved the combo of parsley, cilantro, and dill.
How to Make the Perfect Falafel
This homemade falafel recipe is a foolproof way to make the perfect falafel, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make it:
Air Fryer Directions
How long does homemade falafel last in the fridge?
To store, allow the falafel to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375ºF for 8-10 minutes or until they are heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about a minute.
Ways to Enjoy Your Falafel
This falafel recipe was destined to be enjoyed in our amazing falafel bowl recipe that goes live in a few weeks…hehe. In the meantime, we love serving it with our Greek salad or our creamy cucumber salad. You can also enjoy your falafel in a pita pocket or wrap, served with a side of hummus and tahini sauce. Add some fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion for added nutrition and flavor.
