Israeli Falafel

Ingredients for Israeli Falafel

• 120ml tahini (sesame seed paste)

• 4 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 small onion, chopped (about 40g )

• 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper

• 240ml dried chickpeas, refrigerated overnight in water to cover by 2 inches, then drained, or 160g canned chickpeas, drained

• 1 small onion, diced (about 80g )

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoons dried red pepper flakes

• 1/2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda

• About 1450ml vegetable oil for frying

• 5 to 6 pita breads, top 1/3 cut off each

• 2 plum tomatoes, seeded and diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 green pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced

• Pickled turnip*

• Mango amba (pickle)*

• Harissa hot sauce

• *Available from ethnicgrocer.com

How to make Israeli Falafel

In food processor or blender, combine all ingredients and 60ml water. Process into smooth paste. (DO AHEAD: Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated, covered, up to 1 day.)

In food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, red pepper flakes, and bicarbonate of soda. Pulse just until finely chopped and crumbly (mixture will resemble wet bread crumbs; do not overprocess into paste, or balls will be heavy). (DO AHEAD: Mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated, covered, up to 1 day.)

In large shallow skillet over moderately high heat, heat 3 inches oil until thermometer registers 177°C.

Using 2 teaspoons or falafel scoop, form mixture into approximately 1-inch-diameter balls or disks. Working in batches of 5, lower carefully into hot oil and fry, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Repeat to fry remaining falafel, returning oil to 177°C between each batch.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.