Homemade Falafel Patties (Crispy, Shallow-Fried & Easy)

Golden homemade falafel patties

Falafel is one of those dishes that feels impressive but is actually very simple to make at home. With soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs and warm spices, these homemade falafel patties come together quickly and deliver incredible flavour.


The key to authentic falafel is using soaked raw chickpeas rather than canned ones. This creates the classic falafel texture , crispy on the outside and soft, herby and tender inside. A mix of parsley, garlic and spices gives the patties their signature savoury depth.


These falafel patties are shallow-fried until golden and crisp, making them perfect for wraps, bowls or dipping into tahini sauce. Once you try making falafel from scratch, it’s hard to go back to store-bought.

Homemade Falafel Patties (Crispy, Shallow-Fried & Easy)

Crispy homemade falafel patties made with soaked chickpeas, herbs and spices. Perfect for wraps, bowls and dipping into tahini.

Author
Healthythandi
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4
Cuisine
Middle Eastern

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas
  • ½ small onion
  • 2–3 garlic cloves
  • Large handful fresh parsley
  • Optional:
  • Fresh coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional:
  • Small pinch lemon zest
  • Oil for shallow frying

Directions

  1. Place the dried chickpeas in a bowl and cover with plenty of water.
  2. Allow them to soak for 12–24 hours.
  3. Drain well and pat dry thoroughly.
  4. Do not cook the chickpeas. Falafel requires soaked raw chickpeas for the correct texture.
  5. Add the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, optional coriander, cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt and olive oil to a food processor.
  6. Blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. The texture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
  8. Avoid blending into a smooth paste.
  9. Allow the falafel mixture to rest for about 20–30 minutes.
  10. This helps the mixture bind and makes shaping easier.
  11. Form the mixture into small patties or rounds using your hands.
  12. Press gently so they hold their shape.
  13. Heat a thin layer of oil in a pan over medium heat.
  14. Shallow fry the falafel patties until golden and crisp on both sides.
  15. Cook in batches if needed and avoid overcrowding the pan.
  16. Once golden, remove and drain briefly on paper towel.
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