Crispy Herb Falafel with Hummus and Greens
Golden brown, crispy falafel made from fresh herbs and chickpeas, served with hummus, greens, and tangy sauces—a delicious, protein-rich Middle Eastern dish.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, not canned)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup fresh dill (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour or chickpea flour
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Mixed greens or baby spinach
- Tahini sauce (optional)
- Drain soaked chickpeas and add to a food processor with herbs, onion, garlic, spices, baking soda, salt, pepper, and flour.
- Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed—texture should be grainy and hold together when formed.
- Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Form the mixture into small patties or balls and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot on a bed of greens with hummus, a drizzle of tahini, and fresh lime wedges.
Notes
- Do not use canned chickpeas; they will be too soft for proper falafel texture.
- Chilling the mixture helps the falafel hold its shape while frying.
- You can bake the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes as a healthier alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: falafel, vegan, Middle Eastern, chickpeas, hummus, herbs, tahini, gluten-free option