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Delicious Dish

Sides & Salads

Crispy Green Falafel Balls Recipe

October 29, 2021|Updated July 17, 2022|By Carolyn Cohen
Crispy Green Falafel Balls - sides & salads recipe by Carolyn Cohen

Ingredients

  • ⅔ cup DRIED chickpeas, soaked in the fridge overnight in water
  • 1 cup parsley leaves
  • 1 cup cilantro leaves
  • ½ med onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ jalapeño chilies
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • Grapeseed oil for frying

Instructions

  1. 1

    Make the Hakosem Falafel Balls. Drain and rinse the chickpeas then place them in the bowl of the food processor. Mince until they are chopped into large crumbs. Add the parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, jalapeno and water. Pulse until you have a green paste, you will need to scrape down the sides a few times. In a small bowl mix together the salt, cumin, coriander, sesame seeds, and baking soda. Heat 2-inches of oil in a deep pot (small one is fine). The oil needs to be hot (360 ̊F). You can test it by putting a small piece of bread in it. It should sizzle.

  2. 2

    Add the spices to the falafel mixture, mix together. Place a paper towel on a plate. Using a spoon and your hands form the falafel mixture into large walnut size balls. Drop them into the oil, only about 6 at a time. Flip them after 1-2 minutes, cook on the second side and remove to the lined plate. Repeat until all the falafel balls are cooked.

Notes

Makes 12-15 falafel balls. Note: You can prepare the Green Falafel Mixture WITHOUT the spices and baking soda hours or even a day ahead. Add the spices/baking soda right before shaping and frying. Baking the Falafel. Preheat oven to 375 ̊F. I recommend frying the falafel but if you want to bake them generously oil (1⁄4 cup) a foil lined cookie sheet. Shape the falafel balls into flat-ish balls (not so round) and place them on the sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes , flip and repeat.

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Most sides keep well for 3-4 days. Dress salads just before serving to keep them crisp.
Make Ahead Tip
Many sides can be prepped in advance. Chop vegetables and make dressings ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.
Serving Tip
This pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Crispy Green Falafel Balls?

This Crispy Green Falafel Balls recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 13 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

What goes well with this crispy green falafel balls?

This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.