Falafel Plate
Falafel served with rice, salad, and tahini sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Olives Mediterranean Grill
Falafel's exact origins are debated, but it's widely believed to have originated in Egypt over 1000 years ago, possibly as a substitute for meat during Lent by Coptic Christians. From Egypt, it spread throughout the Middle East, evolving and adapting with regional ingredients and tastes. In recent decades, falafel has gained immense popularity worldwide, becoming a staple in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
Falafel holds significant cultural importance in the Middle East, often seen as a symbol of the region's culinary heritage.
Street Food Staple
Falafel is a ubiquitous street food throughout the Middle East, readily available from vendors and a popular choice for a quick and affordable meal.
Vegetarian/Vegan Favorite
As a naturally vegetarian and vegan dish, falafel is a popular choice for those seeking plant-based options and a staple during religious observances requiring abstaining from meat.
Cultural Identity
Falafel has become intertwined with the cultural identity of several Middle Eastern countries, with variations in recipes and serving styles reflecting regional culinary traditions. Its popularity has spread globally, becoming a symbol of Middle Eastern cuisine.
The Falafel Plate offers a delightful combination of savory, earthy, and fresh flavors.
The crispy falafel balls are typically made from ground chickpeas or fava beans (or a combination), herbs like parsley and cilantro, spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic, and a touch of heat from chili. The tahini sauce, made from ground sesame seeds, lemon juice, and garlic, adds a creamy, nutty, and tangy element. Common sides include fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, pickled vegetables, and warm pita bread. The overall flavor profile is a balanced mix of savory, herbaceous, nutty, and slightly acidic, with a satisfying textural contrast between the crispy falafel and the soft pita.
Achieving Crispy Falafel
Ensure your falafel mixture is not too wet, as this will result in soggy falafel. Refrigerating the mixture for at least 30 minutes before frying helps to bind the ingredients and improve texture. Use hot oil (around 350°F/175°C) for frying, and don't overcrowd the pan.
Perfecting Tahini Sauce
Use high-quality tahini for the best flavor. Adjust the lemon juice and garlic to your preference. Adding ice water, a little at a time, can help create a smoother, creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Warm pita bread is essential. Load the pita with falafel, tahini sauce, chopped vegetables, and pickles for a complete and satisfying meal. Consider adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of sumac for extra flavor.
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