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.