Falafel sandwich

Delicious Chickpea Meatball Recipe (Falafel) with Various Garnishes

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Frying time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction:
Falafel, a traditional chickpea meatball dish, has a long history and is loved by food enthusiasts around the world. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures, offering a healthy and delicious option perfect for any meal, especially during fasting periods. The chickpea balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the blend of spices makes them a delight.

Ingredients:
- 500 g chickpeas (dried or canned)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh coriander (or another bunch of parsley if coriander is unavailable)
- 1 large red onion
- 1 large white onion
- 6 cloves of garlic
- Olive oil (for frying and for mixing)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon curry
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 4 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg (pinch)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for the mixture)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- Tomatoes (for serving)
- French fries (for serving)
- Pickles (for serving)
- White and red cabbage (for serving)
- Breadcrumbs and flour (for frying)
- Pita bread (for serving)
- Mayonnaise or garlic sauce (optional)
- Yogurt or tahini (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the chickpeas
If using dried chickpeas, soak them in warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda the night before. The baking soda will help soften the chickpeas, making them easier to process. The next day, drain the chickpeas and rinse them well under cold running water. If using canned chickpeas, make sure they are well-drained.

Step 2: Grinding the ingredients
Use a food processor or meat grinder to turn the chickpeas into a paste. Add a little olive oil to facilitate the process. After grinding the chickpeas, transfer them to a large bowl.

Step 3: Preparing the spice mixture
In the same food processor, add the parsley, coriander, red onion, white onion, garlic, spices (paprika, curry, turmeric, pepper, nutmeg, cumin), and the two tablespoons of flour. Blend everything until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Then, combine this paste with the ground chickpeas and mix well.

Step 4: Cooling the mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture cool in the refrigerator for an hour. This step is essential to allow the ingredients to blend and develop flavors.

Step 5: Forming the meatballs
After an hour, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Make a test meatball and fry it in a pan with hot oil to check if it holds together. If the meatballs are too crumbly, add a little more flour. Shape the meatballs to your desired size and coat them in flour or breadcrumbs, but avoid rolling them too much to maintain the crispy texture.

Step 6: Frying the meatballs
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 7: Serving
To create a delicious sandwich, cut the pita bread in half and fill it with finely shredded cabbage, lightly salted, pickles, French fries, chickpea meatballs, sliced tomatoes, and, if desired, sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, or garlic sauce. Add whole parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or creamy yogurt to balance the spicy flavors of the falafel. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a fruit smoothie, will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional information:
Chickpea meatballs are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. Each serving of falafel contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying. Additionally, chickpeas are a good source of iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a quick and convenient option. Make sure they are well-drained.

2. What can I use instead of coriander?
If you don’t have coriander, add an extra amount of parsley to achieve a similar flavor.

3. How can I store the meatballs?
Chickpea meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

4. Are there variations of this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different spices, such as chili or cumin. You can also add grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for a different texture.

Conclusion:
This falafel recipe is not only a delicious choice but also an excellent way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, in a sandwich, or as part of a more complex meal, chickpea meatballs will surely be appreciated by all who taste them. Experiment and enjoy every bite!