Ingredients
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1 cup
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1 large
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2 cloves
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1/4 cup
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1/4
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1 teaspoon
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1 teaspoon
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1/2 teaspoon
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1/4 teaspoon
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1/4 cup
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1/4 cup
Directions
Falafel, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, is a delicious and nutritious treat. While it’s often associated with its crispy, deep-fried exterior, falafel’s true magic lies in its core: chickpeas.
Chickpeas, the star ingredient in falafel, are a powerhouse of protein and fiber. A single 100-gram serving of frozen premade chickpea falafel packs a whopping 21 grams of protein and 11 grams of dietary fiber. This makes falafel a satisfying and filling food that can help you feel full and energized.
Fat content in falafel is relatively low, with only 4 grams of fat per 100-gram serving. This makes it a good choice for those watching their fat intake. However, it’s important to note that the fat content can vary depending on the preparation method. Deep-fried falafel tends to have higher fat content compared to baked or air-fried versions.
Water and Protein: A significant portion of falafel is made up of water and protein, each contributing about 40% to its composition. This means that falafel is not only a good source of protein but also provides hydration.
Calories: While falafel is a nutritious food, it’s also important to be mindful of its calorie content. A 100-gram serving of frozen premade falafel contains 321 calories. This calorie count can increase depending on the preparation method and any additional ingredients added, such as tahini sauce or pita bread.
Overall, falafel is a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It’s a good source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice for a meal or snack.
Steps
1
Done
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Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. |
2
Done
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Combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, but not completely smooth. You want some texture! |
3
Done
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Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the flour. Mix well. |
4
Done
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Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls or flat patties. |
5
Done
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Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. |
6
Done
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Carefully fry the falafel balls or patties for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. |
7
Done
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Remove the falafel from the skillet and drain on paper towels. |
8
Done
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Serving Suggestions• Wrap the falafel in pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce, chopped vegetables, and pickles. • Serve falafel as a side dish with rice, couscous, or salad. Enjoy falafel as a snack or appetizer. Tips: • Soaking the chickpeas overnight helps them soften and cook faster. • Don't over-process the mixture in the food processor, as you want some texture in the falafel. • Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying. • Serve the falafel immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade falafel! |