Description
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—these Falafel Balls with Tahini Drizzle make a satisfying plant-based meal or snack. Packed with herbs, chickpeas, and warm spices, they’re a healthy, protein-rich option for anyone looking for quick lunch ideas, easy dinner solutions, or vibrant vegetarian recipes. Serve them in pitas, over salads, or on a mezze platter!
Ingredients
1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
1 cup fresh parsley
1 cup fresh cilantro
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 to 3 tablespoons chickpea flour (as needed)
1/2 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup water (adjust for consistency)
Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)
Instructions
1. Soak dried chickpeas overnight in water. Drain and rinse before using.
2. In a food processor, pulse chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking soda until coarse but sticky.
3. If needed, add chickpea flour to help bind the mixture.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Chill for 30 minutes if too soft.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry falafel in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
6. Make the tahini drizzle by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, water, and salt until smooth.
7. Serve falafel warm with tahini sauce, pita, and veggies.
Notes
Always use dried chickpeas soaked overnight—never canned—for authentic texture.
To make ahead, freeze uncooked falafel balls and fry directly from frozen.
For a lighter version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main, Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: falafel, tahini, vegan, easy recipe, quick lunch, healthy snack