Herb-Infused Falafel with Lemon-Tahini Sauce 🌿✨

 New Recipe

 Herb-Infused Falafel with Lemon-Tahini Sauce 🌿✨

Ingredients:

• For the falafel:

  • 1½ cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight (do not use canned)
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, packed
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, sunflower, or peanut oil)

• For the lemon-tahini sauce:

  • ½ cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 3-4 tbsp water (to thin)
  • Salt to taste

• For serving:

  • Warm pita bread or flatbread
  • Chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion
  • Pickles or pickled turnips
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the falafel mixture:

   • Drain the soaked chickpeas and pat them dry.
   • In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until a coarse, grainy paste forms (do not over-blend; it should have some texture).
   • Add the baking soda and flour, and pulse again to combine. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.

2. Shape the falafel:

   • Using damp hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties (about 1-2 inches in diameter).

3. Fry the falafel:

   • Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry the falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

4. Make the lemon-tahini sauce:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

5. Assemble and serve:

   • Spread the lemon-tahini sauce inside a warm pita or flatbread. Add falafel, chopped vegetables, and pickles. Garnish with fresh parsley and drizzle more sauce on top.

---

Optional Variations:

• Baked Version: Brush the falafel patties with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Spicy Kick: Add a finely minced green chili to the falafel mixture.
• Extra Crispy: Coat the falafel in sesame seeds before frying for added crunch.