Introduction
Falafel, a beloved Middle Eastern dish, is a crispy and flavorful delight made from chickpeas or fava beans. Whether served in pita bread, over a salad, or as a snack, falafel is both versatile and nutritious. If you’ve ever wondered how to make authentic falafel at home, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your falafel turns out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
What You Need to Make Falafel
Before we dive into the process, gather the following ingredients and tools:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

Tools:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make falafel from scratch:
- Soak the Chickpeas
- Rinse 2 cups of dried chickpeas and soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. The chickpeas will double in size, so ensure there’s enough water.
- Prepare the Mixture
- Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture has a coarse, sand-like texture.
- Add Baking Powder
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 tsp of baking powder. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Shape the Falafel
- Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and form it into small balls or patties using your hands.
- Heat the Oil
- Pour oil into a deep frying pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Falafel
- Gently drop the falafel balls into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the falafel warm with tahini sauce, hummus, or your favorite accompaniments like fresh veggies or pickles.
Tips for Perfect Falafel
- Avoid using canned chickpeas; dried and soaked chickpeas give better texture.
- Don’t over-process the mixture. A coarse texture ensures a crispy exterior.
- Refrigerating the mixture helps it hold together during frying.
- Always test one falafel ball before frying a full batch.
Nutritional Benefits of Falafel
Falafel is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a nutritious meal.

FAQs About Making Falafel
1. Can I bake falafel instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake falafel for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the falafel on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. What can I serve with falafel?
Falafel pairs well with pita bread, tahini sauce, hummus, tabbouleh, or a fresh salad.
3. How do I store leftover falafel?
Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
4. Can I freeze falafel?
Yes, freeze uncooked falafel on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Related Recipe Variations
- Spicy Falafel: Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Falafel: Replace baking powder with gluten-free alternatives and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Green Falafel: Use more herbs like dill or mint for a vibrant green color and unique flavor.
Making falafel at home is simpler than you might think. How To Make Falafel Recipe By following this guide, you’ll master the art of creating crispy, golden falafel that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version. Experiment with flavors and serving styles to make this dish truly your own.