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A vibrant falafel bowl filled with fresh ingredients

Falafel Bowl

This recipe provides a proven 7-step method to create a delicious and satisfying falafel bowl. It combines crispy falafel with fresh vegetables and a flavorful sauce for a complete meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 bowls
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Falafel
  • 15 ounces canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 0.5 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bowl
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 0.5 cup cucumber, diced
  • 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • tahini sauce, for serving
For the Tahini sauce
  • 0.25 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2-4 tbsp cold water
  • 1 garlic (optional), minced
  • salt to taste

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Falafel Mixture
  1. Combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, and flour in a food processor, then pulse until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky.
  2. Form the mixture into small patties or balls and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Fry the Falafel
  1. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Carefully place the falafel into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Tahini Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic (if using), and salt until smooth and creamy; add more water if needed for desired consistency.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Divide the cooked quinoa or rice among serving bowls.
  2. Arrange the fried falafel, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion over the quinoa or rice.
Serve
  1. Drizzle generously with the prepared tahini sauce and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the falafel mixture. You can also prepare the falafel mixture and tahini sauce a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Feel free to customize your bowl with other vegetables like shredded lettuce, pickled turnips, or roasted bell peppers.