Ingredients
– 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 4 pita breads
– 1 cup lettuce, shredded
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 cucumber, diced
– Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce for drizzling
Instructions
Creating your falafel pita sandwich is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. They should be soft but not mushy.
2. Make Falafel Mixture: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour. Blend until a coarse mixture forms.
3. Form Falafel Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking (approximately 350°F).
5. Fry Falafel: Carefully place the falafel balls into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Prepare the Pita: While the falafel is frying, warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the crispy falafel in the warm pita and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, cucumber, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sandwiches
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 12g