Falafel, a staple of Israeli cuisine, is beloved for its crunchy texture and earthy flavors. Traditionally made from ground chickpeas, these golden-brown orbs are infused with fragrant herbs and spices, making them a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether wrapped in warm pita with fresh vegetables or served as an appetizer, homemade falafel captures the vibrant spirit of Middle Eastern cooking. This kosher recipe ensures that you can enjoy this iconic dish while adhering to dietary laws, making it a joyous addition to any kosher kitchen.
Tips for Crisp Falafel
Always use dried chickpeas that have been soaked, never canned; canned chickpeas are too wet and the falafel will fall apart. Chill the mixture before shaping, and test-fry one ball first. If it breaks up, add a spoonful more flour. Keep the oil at about 350°F so the outside crisps while the inside cooks through.
Kosher Notes
Falafel is pareve, so it can be served with a meat or dairy meal. Check parsley and cilantro carefully for insects. Use oil, baking powder and pita with a reliable hechsher.
Serving and Storage
Serve falafel in warm pita with Israeli salad, tahini, pickles and zhug. Leftover falafel keeps 3 days in the refrigerator; reheat in a hot oven for about 8 minutes to crisp it. The uncooked mixture also freezes well.

Ingredients
What I use for this recipe
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Method
- Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Add them to a food processor along with onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
- Pulse the mixture until a coarse paste forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and flour. Mix well.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the mixture firm up.
- Using wet hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove falafel with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with pita, tahini sauce, and salad.
Notes
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