How to Make Delicious Kosher Falafel: A Comprehensive Guide

ByElla Jones
Delicious Kosher Falafel

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to make delicious kosher falafel! If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, you probably already know how satisfying and flavorful falafel can be. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating delicious kosher falafel right in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the crispy exterior and the tender, herb-infused interior of these delectable falafel balls.

Understanding Kosher Falafel

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s briefly touch upon the concept of kosher falafel. Kosher dietary laws are a set of regulations followed by Jewish individuals, which outline the types of foods that are considered permissible to consume. In the case of falafel, ensuring its kosher status involves using kosher-certified ingredients and adhering to specific preparation guidelines.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare delicious kosher falafel, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soaking the Chickpeas

The first step in making kosher falafel is to soak the dried chickpeas overnight. This helps soften the chickpeas and ensures a better texture for the falafel. Once soaked, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly before using them in the recipe.

Step 2: Preparing the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic cloves, parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, flour, and salt. Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse paste. Make sure not to over-process it; the mixture should still have some texture.

Step 3: Shaping the Falafel

Using your hands, take about two tablespoons of the falafel mixture and shape it into a small ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture. You can also flatten the balls slightly to create small patties if desired. The choice is yours!

Step 4: Frying the Falafel

In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the falafel balls or patties into the hot oil, ensuring they are fully submerged. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the falafel to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your homemade kosher falafel is ready, it’s time to enjoy it to the fullest. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:

  1. Pita Pocket: Fill warm pita bread with falafel, fresh salad greens, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a classic falafel sandwich.
  2. Salad Bowl: Place a bed of mixed greens or tabbouleh on a plate, top it with falafel, and add your favorite Mediterranean toppings such as olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
  3. Mezze Platter: Arrange the falafel alongside hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki, and a variety of pickled vegetables for a delightful mezze platter to share with friends and family.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve learned how to make delicious kosher falafel from scratch. By following our comprehensive guide, you can create falafel that rivals your favorite Middle Eastern restaurant. The crispy exterior, combined with the flavorful and aromatic interior, will leave your taste buds craving for more. So why wait? Gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a falafel-making adventure in your own kitchen!