Egyptian Falafel – Pita Pocket Filler π₯
Overview:
This Egyptian-inspired falafel recipe is a labor of love, taking a bit of time to prepare but rewarding you with bursts of flavor in every bite. Developed with the guidance of an Egyptian friend, it’s a delightful dish enjoyed by many, not just those from Egypt. These crispy falafel patties are perfect for stuffing into pita pockets along with a vibrant vegetable mix, creating a satisfying meal or snack that’s bursting with Middle Eastern flavors.
- Cuisine: Egyptian, African
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 664.3 per serving
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Potato, Cheese, Beans, Vegetable, Egyptian, African, Microwave, < 60 Mins, Deep Fried
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried fava beans | 2 cups |
| Onion | 1 |
| Potato | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 6 |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Green onions | 3 |
| Baking soda | 3/4 tsp |
| Sesame seeds | 1/2 cup |
| Radishes | 4 |
| Fresh parsley | 1/2 cup |
| Tomatoes | 1 |
| Dill pickle | 1 |
| Lettuce | 6 leaves |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Deep fried dried onions | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | for frying |
| Pita bread | 6 |
| JalapeΓ±o pepper | 1 |
| Beau Monde seasoning | to taste |
| Seasoning salt | to taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare Fava Beans: In a large saucepan, add dried fava beans and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let beans soak overnight. When ready to use, drain.
-
-
Cook Potatoes: In a small saucepan, add quartered potatoes, cover with water, and cook until done. Drain and set aside.
-
Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine soaked fava beans, onion, cooked potato, and garlic cloves. Blend until smooth.
-
Season Mixture: Add ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Process for a few seconds to blend well.
-
Mix Ingredients: Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add chopped green onions, bread crumbs, deep-fried dried onions, and baking soda. Mix well to incorporate.
-
Shape Patties: With dampened hands, form the mixture into balls the size of walnuts. Place on a lightly floured surface and flatten slightly into patties.
-
Coat with Sesame Seeds: Measure roasted sesame seeds into a soup bowl. Dip the flattened fava patties into sesame seeds, coating them lightly.
-
Fry Patties: In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully drop the fava patties into the hot oil and deep-fry for 2 minutes. Turn over and deep-fry for another 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
-
Prepare Vegetable Mix: In a medium mixing bowl, combine sliced radishes, chopped fresh parsley, diced tomato, diced dill pickle, and diced jalapeΓ±o pepper. Mix well.
-
Warm Pita Bread: Wrap paper towels around each pita bread and microwave individually on HIGH (full power) for 30 seconds.
-
Assemble Pitas: Remove warmed pita bread from the microwave and cut one end to form a pocket. Stuff 3 or 4 falafel patties into each pocket, then spoon about 3 tablespoons of the prepared vegetable mix into each pocket.
-
Final Touches: Top with finely shredded lettuce and sprinkle with Beau Monde seasoning or seasoning salt to taste.
-
Serve: Enjoy your delicious Egyptian falafel pita pockets immediately!
Notes:
- Canned fava beans can be used as an alternative to dried ones, but the dried variety is recommended for the best flavor.
- Deep-fried dried onions are available in most East Indian Grocery Stores and are preferred for their crispiness.
- Customize your pita pockets with additional toppings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.
Prepare to indulge in the rich flavors of Egypt with this homemade falafel recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
