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Falafel Pita Sandwich
Dive into the vibrant culinary world of the Middle East with this irresistible Falafel Pita Sandwich. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture, featuring crispy, golden-brown falafel balls nestled in warm pita bread, paired with a medley of fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy tahini sauce. Originating as a popular street food in Egypt and widely enjoyed across the Levant, falafel has captured hearts around the globe. This delightful sandwich is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal that transports you to the bustling markets of Cairo or the vibrant streets of Jerusalem.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Dried chickpeas (1 cup, soaked overnight)
- Onion (1 small, chopped)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced (for falafel) + 1 clove (for tahini sauce))
- Fresh parsley (1/2 cup, chopped)
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Pita bread (4 rounds)
- Lettuce (1 cup, shredded)
- Cucumber (1, sliced)
- Tomato (1, sliced)
- Tahini (1/2 cup)
- Water (1/4 cup (adjust for consistency))
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight. Drain and rinse well before using.
- In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and all-purpose flour. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and holds together but is not pureed.
- Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- While the falafel mixture chills, prepare the tahini sauce. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, water, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat, ensuring there is enough oil to submerge the falafel.
- Shape the chilled falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Carefully drop them into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Warm the pita bread rounds in a toaster or oven until soft and pliable.
- Cut each pita bread in half and gently open the pocket.
- Stuff each pita half with a few falafel balls, sliced tomato, cucumber, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce.
- Serve the falafel pita sandwiches immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of sumac if desired. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 30 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 15g • Carbs: 60g • Protein: 15g • Sodium: 300mg • Sugar: 4g