Irresistible Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you to another place with its vibrant flavors and rich aromas? The Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe does just that. This delightful combination of crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome treat for the palate. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or simply when you crave something nutritious and satisfying.

Growing up, I remember the first time I tried falafel at a bustling street market. The warm, golden nuggets of chickpeas were bursting with flavor, paired beautifully with tahini sauce and fresh veggies. Each bite was a symphony of textures: crunchy on the outside yet tender within. Fast forward to today, I make this scrumptious vegan platter to share with my loved ones. It’s ideal for summer picnics or cozy winter dinners. With each mouthful, you’ll experience the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine while enjoying a healthy plant-based meal.

Key Ingredients For Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chickpeas: Use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for the best texture; canned chickpeas can be used but may lead to a softer falafel.

• Fresh Parsley: This herb adds brightness and depth; opt for vibrant green leaves for maximum flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion finely chopped enhances the overall taste; use a sweet variety for added sweetness.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic base; use about three cloves to infuse flavor.

• Cumin Powder: Essential for that warm, earthy flavor; freshly ground cumin offers the best aroma.

• Coriander Powder: This spice complements cumin well; use ground coriander for balanced flavors.

• Salt: Helps enhance all other ingredients; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of heat; use as much as you prefer.

• Baking Powder: A key leavening agent ensuring fluffy falafel; use about one teaspoon.

• Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the mixture together; add gradually until desired consistency is reached.

For Serving:

• Pita Bread: Soft pita pockets are perfect for holding falafel and toppings; warm them slightly before serving.

• Tahini Sauce: Creamy tahini sauce elevates the dish; drizzle generously over the platter before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Soak and Prepare Chickpeas

Rinse one cup of dried chickpeas under cold water and soak them in water overnight. Ensure they are covered by at least two inches of water as they will expand during soaking.

Second Step : Blend Ingredients

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, onion, garlic cloves, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour. Pulse until everything is well mixed but still has some texture.

Third Step : Shape Falafel Balls

Using your hands or a small scoop, form little balls or patties from the mixture. Aim for about two inches in diameter for even cooking. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper.

Fourth Step : Fry or Bake Falafel

To fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry falafel balls in batches until golden brown on all sides (about three minutes per side). To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place falafel on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about twenty minutes or until crispy.

Fifth Step : Prepare Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini paste with lemon juice and garlic until smooth. Add water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with tahini sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Consistency Matters: If your mixture feels too wet after blending, add more flour gradually until it holds together well without being sticky.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will significantly enhance flavor profiles compared to pre-ground varieties.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare falafel mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days before cooking.

Preparation Steps

Start by soaking chickpeas in water overnight. This is crucial as it softens them and enhances their flavor. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before placing them in a food processor. Add garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to the processor. Blend until you achieve a coarse mixture that holds together when pressed.

Next, form small balls or patties from the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and ensures they maintain their shape during cooking. While waiting, prepare your dipping sauces and toppings to elevate your Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe.

Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet for frying. Fry the falafels in batches until golden brown on all sides. Once cooked, transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

This Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe is perfect for gatherings or a hearty family meal. You can serve falafels with:

• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread complements falafel perfectly.
• Fresh Vegetables: Include cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce for freshness.
• Dipping Sauces: Tahini sauce or homemade hummus adds creaminess.

You can also create a colorful salad bowl by layering greens and using sliced falafels as a protein source.

Nutritional Benefits

The Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish very filling while supporting digestive health.

Adding fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being. This platter is also low in saturated fats when prepared with healthy oils. The combination of spices adds antioxidants beneficial for various bodily functions.

Storage Tips

To keep your Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe fresh after preparation, store leftover falafels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked falafels before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to enjoy this flavorful platter anytime you desire.

FAQs :

What ingredients are essential for the Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe?

To make this delightful platter, the essential ingredients include dried chickpeas, garlic, onions, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, along with spices such as cumin and coriander. These ingredients work together to create the traditional flavors of falafel while keeping the dish vegan-friendly. Optional ingredients like tahini sauce or hummus enhance the overall taste of your platter.

Can I bake instead of fry for this Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe?

Certainly! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place shaped falafels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil for that crispy texture you desire. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until they are golden brown.

How can I customize my falafel platter?

You can easily customize your Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe by adding different toppings or sauces according to your preference. Consider adding pickled vegetables for an extra zing or different types of sauces such as spicy sriracha or yogurt-based dressings (vegan). Experimenting with various grains like quinoa or couscous as a base can also add diversity to your dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe is excellent for meal prep due to its versatility and flavor retention over time. Make a large batch of falafels ahead of time and store them separately from fresh veggies and sauces until ready to serve. This way, you can easily assemble your platter throughout the week without losing freshness or taste.

Print

Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Rym
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Golden Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter. This delightful dish features crispy falafel made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, served alongside warm pita bread and creamy tahini sauce. Perfect for gatherings or a nutritious meal at home, this platter is both satisfying and wholesome, offering a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 pita breads (warmed)
• ½ cup tahini sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Rinse soaked chickpeas and drain. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour. Pulse until mixed but still textured.
2. Form the mixture into small balls or patties (about 2 inches in diameter) and place on parchment-lined plates.
3. To fry: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry falafel in batches for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake falafel on a greased sheet for about 20 minutes or until crispy.
5. Prepare tahini sauce by whisking tahini with lemon juice and garlic; add water for desired consistency.
6. Serve falafel warm with pita bread and drizzle with tahini sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying/Baking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 falafel balls (90g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg