Simple Vegan Falafel Recipe

When I am absent from my blog and not working, I am practicing self-care. Self-care for me, has always been getting down in my kitchen. For over two decades, I have loved the exploration of various recipes and finding ways to recreate a great tasting restaurant meal, at home.

If you haven't been around my blog, you should know that since about 2012, I have followed the "Eat Right 4 Your Type" nutrition model (see 2013 post here: http://www.food-mood.org/2013/08/eat-for-your-blood-type.html). Following the list of foods to eat/avoid have been a game changer in the health of my colon and overall digestive system. Whenever I work with nutrition clients, the first question I ask, is "what is your blood type?". If they do not know, I direct them to find out.
Being that I am not a heavy meat eater and have type O blood, which requires high-protein foods, I have to diversify my protein recipe repertoire. In walks falafel! Having been a lover of Mediterranean foods and taken a trip to Greece in 2017, I had fallen in love with falafel. To make falafel at home, is one of the cheapest, tastiest fried snack you could indulge in.

Here's what you need:
  • 1 lb of dry garbanzo beans aka chickpeas, soaked overnight (drain prior to processing)
  • 1 small red onion
  • 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp of flour
  • Seasonings: pink salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if you know you know that I encourage season to taste)
  • Vegetable oil of choice: I use grapeseed oil
Instructions:
  • In a food processor, process all ingredients (in small batches) to a smooth consistency, but not mushy.
  • Add processed mix to a bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.
  • Add an inch of oil to a skillet (I prefer a cast iron), form falafel mixture in the shape of a ball, then flatten and add to hot skillet.
  • Cook on each side for about 5 minutes or until golden crispy brown :)
  • Transfer all cooked falafel to a napkin lined dish, so that all oil can drain. 
  • Enjoy these fritters served dipped in hummus or tzatziki sauce OR in a pita filled with other vegetables, along with hummus AND tzatziki sauce...YUM!