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Crispy Homemade Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce (1)

Homemade Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce

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Learn how to make crispy homemade falafel with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This vegetarian Mediterranean meal is perfect for a pita or bowl.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Tzatziki Sauce:
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.
  2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not a paste.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in the flour and baking powder until well combined.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. In a separate bowl, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, mint, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Shape the falafel mixture into small patties or balls.
  9. Carefully fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  10. Remove falafel with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  11. Serve the falafel warm with the tzatziki sauce, in pita bread or as part of a bowl.

Notes

  • Ensure chickpeas are soaked overnight for best results.
  • Do not over-process the falafel mixture; it should have some texture.
  • Fry falafel in batches to maintain oil temperature.
  • Squeeze excess water from the grated cucumber for the tzatziki to prevent a watery sauce.

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