Flavors of the Middle East: Homemade Falafel with Tahini Sauce

Explore the vibrant and aromatic cuisine of the Middle East with this delightful homemade falafel recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, falafel is a beloved street food enjoyed across the region. Paired with creamy tahini sauce, it’s a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Lebanon, Israel, or Egypt.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Tahini Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini paste
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then transfer them to a food processor.
2. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and baking powder to the food processor.
3. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped and well combined, but not pureed.
4. Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour until it forms a thick paste. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour as needed.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the falafel mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. While the falafel mixture is chilling, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini paste, water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
8. Using wet hands, shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
9. Carefully lower the falafel into the hot oil and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove the falafel from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
11. Serve the falafel hot with tahini sauce, pita bread, and your favorite Middle Eastern salads and pickles.

Enjoy the tantalizing flavors and textures of homemade falafel with creamy tahini sauce, and experience a taste of the Middle East in the comfort of your own home!