Hearty Family-Style Mediterranean Falafel with Yogurt Sauce

Hearty Family-Style Mediterranean Falafel with Yogurt Sauce

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, typically fried to a crispy perfection. This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors and is perfect for a family-style meal. Paired with a creamy yogurt sauce, these falafel are served alongside fresh vegetables and warm pita bread, making it a wholesome and satisfying feast.

Ingredients ###

For the Falafel:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

For the Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:
– Pita bread
– Chopped lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced cucumbers
– Pickled turnips

Instructions ###

1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
– Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Transfer them into a food processor.
– Add the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, turmeric, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
– Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse, grainy paste. Do not overprocess; you want some texture in the mixture.
– Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and to firm up the mixture.

2. Shape the Falafel:
– Once the mixture is well-chilled, use your hands or a falafel scoop to form small balls or patties, about the size of a walnut.

3. Fry the Falafel:
– In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
– When the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully drop the falafel balls into the oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
– Fry the falafel in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
– Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried falafel to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Yogurt Sauce:
– In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
– Mix well until the sauce is smooth and well-blended.

5. Serve:
– Spread some yogurt sauce inside the pita bread.
– Fill the pita with falafel, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled turnips.
– Serve additional yogurt sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy your hearty family-style Mediterranean meal!

This falafel dish is perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, as everyone can customize their own pita with their favorite toppings.