The Ultimate Falafel Burger
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a falafel burger , then? Honestly, who doesn't love a good burger? Especially when it's packed with flavour and a bit healthier than the usual beefy option! This recipe will turn you into a falafel fanatic, and this homemade veggie burger is so good, it'll have even the most dedicated carnivores reaching for seconds.
This Middle Eastern burger takes its inspiration from the vibrant street food scene of the Levant. It's a relatively straightforward recipe, clocking in at around an hour and fifty minutes (including chilling time).
The recipe makes four satisfying burgers, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with mates.
Why This Falafel Burger Recipe Rocks
This recipe is all about flavour and goodness. Vegetarian falafel is packed with fiber and plant based protein, making it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
It’s perfect for a sunny afternoon barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. What makes this recipe special is the combination of crispy falafel patties , creamy tahini sauce burger , and all your favourite toppings a true taste sensation.
What is A Falafel Easy Recipe ?
This one I can make it from scratch and that tastes amazing. So, one time, my friend tried to make falafel.
It ended in disaster; they were either burnt to a crisp or completely fell apart. This Falafel burger recipe will teach you to nail it.
This falafel burger recipe is the ultimate upgrade to your veggie burger game. It's packed with flavor. It's easy enough to make on a weeknight.
How to Make the Best Vegetarian Falafel Recipe
The secret is all in the prep and don't skip on the chilling time! Keep reading, and you will be able to make great falafel patties .
Now, let's dive into what you'll need to make these little beauties.
Alright, let's talk ingredients and equipment for the ultimate falafel burger . Honestly, getting these right is half the battle. Trust me, I've had some falafel fails! Remember that one time.
..? Oh my gosh! Soaked chickpeas are key. Let's dive in, shall we?
Okay, Smashing! Here's the List: Ingredients & Equipment
This section is all about gathering your arsenal. You'll need the right stuff to nail this vegetarian falafel recipe .
Main Ingredients for Our Falafel Burger
For the Falafel Patties:
- 1 cup (180g) dried chickpeas, soaked for 24 hours . Quality matters! Get good ones.
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped. About 75g .
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1/2 cup (packed) fresh parsley, chopped.
- 1/4 cup (packed) fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped.
- 2 tablespoons (20g) all-purpose flour. This binds it together.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups / 475ml ).
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) tahini.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
- 2 tablespoons water.
- 1 clove garlic, minced.
- Pinch of salt.
For the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame are fab).
- Toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, hummus, hot sauce.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
Cumin and coriander are essential for that Middle Eastern vibe. Don't skip 'em! A pinch of cayenne gives it a nice kick.
Honestly, that tahini sauce makes the burger, so do not forget to make one tahini sauce burger .
Essential Spice Combinations : cumin and coriander are your base. Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics : garlic and fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro).
Quick Substitution Options : Use ready-made falafel patties to save time, for a falafel easy recipe .
Equipment Needed: Kitchen Essentials
You don't need fancy kit. These are the bare minimum to make homemade veggie burger . A food processor is key to chop up the chickpeas.
Food processor : Essential for the vegetarian falafel . Large bowl : Mixing time! Medium bowl : Tahini sauce. Large skillet or deep fryer : Frying the falafel patties .
Slotted spoon : Get the patties out of the oil. Paper towels : Drain excess oil. Tongs : Flipping and maneuvering.
Now, Let's Get Cooking
With your ingredients and gear sorted, you're all set to create a fantastic falafel burger recipe . Remember that quality chickpeas are your best friend for an amazing chickpea burger recipe .
Honestly, you won't regret it!
Cooking Method: Frying Your Way to Falafel Burger Bliss
Right, let's talk about frying! It's key to nailing that perfect falafel burger texture. You know, crispy on the outside, fluffy within.
No one wants a soggy mess. Honestly, I messed this up loads when I first started. But vegetarian falafel burgers are so worth getting right!
Prep Steps: Sorted!
- Essential mise en place : Get everything chopped, measured, and ready. That means your falafel patties are shaped. Vegetable oil is ready. Toppings are prepped!
- Time saving organization tips : Batch prep the falafel mix. Chill it overnight, even. It really helps them hold their shape. I swear!
- Safety reminders : Oil is hot! Don't be a hero. Wear an apron and be careful not to splatter. Hot oil and skin do not mix.
step-by-step Frying: No stress!
- Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil to 350° F ( 175° C) . A thermometer helps, okay ?
- Gently lower the falafel patties into the hot oil. Don't overcrowd.
- Fry for 3- 4 minutes per side.
- Look for that deep golden brown color. It means they are crispy and ready.
- Remove with a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels. This avoids them being greasy.
Pro Tips: Level Up your Falafel Game
- Okay, smashing! Want extra crispness? Double fry them! Fry them once, let them cool slightly, then fry them again.
- Avoid undercooking. Undercooked chickpea burger recipe are mushy. Use a thermometer.
- You can make the falafel patties ahead. Fry just before serving. This saves time!
Honestly, nailing the frying is what makes or breaks a falafel burger . When you bite into that crispy, flavorful patty nestled in a bun with that creamy tahini sauce burger , oh my gosh, is heavenly.
Just remember to take your time and don't rush it. Get that homemade veggie burger and you will be golden!
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Falafel Burger
Right then, you've got the basics for an amazing falafel burger . But let’s chat about making it even better. Honestly, these are the bits that can take your homemade veggie burger from "meh" to "Oh my gosh!".
Plating and Presentation: She's a Beauty
Want your Middle Eastern burger to look as good as it tastes? Pile high your toppings! Think vibrant colours. Red onion slices, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce are your best mates.
A drizzle of tahini sauce will create that extra wow factor! Serve on a wooden board for rustic vibes.
For a fancy touch, skewer a pickle spear to the top of the burger! It adds a little charm, you know?
Sides & Sips: The Perfect Partners
This falafel burger loves company! Crunchy sweet potato fries or a zesty couscous salad are smashing. Looking for a drink? A refreshing lemonade or a light beer will quench your thirst.
You could even go for a kombucha if you fancy!
Storing Your Stash: Keeping It Fresh
Made too many falafel patties ? Don't fret! You can pop them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep them in an airtight container. To reheat, bake them at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through.
Freezing is also an option! Freeze the cooked patties on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They will last for about a month.
Reheat straight from frozen in the oven. Just add a few minutes to the baking time, Okay?
Veggie Variations: Adapting the Falafel
Fancy making this falafel easy recipe even more special? Why not try a spicy version? Add some chilli flakes for a kick! Need a vegan burger recipe ? Just make sure your buns and toppings are vegan too!
For a summery twist, use seasonal tomatoes and fresh herbs. Swapping out the chickpeas for cannellini beans to give it a softer, lighter style and the recipe still works a treat!
Nutrition Nitty Gritty: Goodness in Every Bite
This vegetarian falafel is packed with goodness! Think fibre, protein, and healthy fats. Each falafel burger contains approximately 550-650 calories.
It is an estimate, mind you. Chickpeas are brilliant for digestion! This chickpea burger recipe is good for your gut and keeps you feeling full.
The tahini sauce burger also gives you a good dose of calcium and healthy fats.
Right, that's your lot on the notes side of things! Now get cooking, experiment, and enjoy! Remember, cooking should be fun and creating a vegetarian falafel recipe that is truly your own is the best feeling in the world.
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my falafel burger fall apart when I tried to fry it? Help!
Oh dear, a common snag! The most likely culprit is that the chickpea mixture wasn't chilled for long enough. Chilling allows the ingredients to bind together. Also, ensure you’re using enough flour to bind.
Finally, ensure the frying oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) - if it's not, the falafel will absorb too much oil and crumble.
Can I bake the falafel patties instead of frying them to make a healthier falafel burger?
Absolutely, baking is a grand shout for a healthier version! Bake the falafel patties at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They won't be quite as crispy as the fried version, but they'll still be incredibly tasty and you'll save on some of those sneaky calories.
Just be sure to lightly brush them with oil before baking to help them brown.
How can I make this falafel burger recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
No worries, going gluten-free is a piece of cake! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour (besan) in the falafel patty mixture. Also, be sure to use gluten-free burger buns.
Double check all your other toppings (like sauces or pickles) don’t have any sneaky gluten hiding in them either. Sorted!
Can I prepare the falafel patties in advance and store them for later?
You certainly can, planning ahead is brilliant! You can prepare the falafel patty mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. You can also fully cook the patties, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in the oven or a skillet until warmed through. You can even freeze them for longer storage, just make sure to thaw completely before reheating.
What toppings go best with a falafel burger?
Now you're talking - the possibilities are endless! Traditionally, tahini sauce is a must, but hummus and hot sauce also work wonders. Fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles add a lovely crunch and zest. For a bit of extra flair, try adding some pickled red cabbage or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Go wild and make it your own!
My local shop doesn't have fresh cilantro! What can I use as a substitute in this falafel burger recipe?
Don't fret, mate! If you can't find fresh cilantro, simply use all parsley. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but it'll still be delicious. You can also try adding a small amount of mint for a bit of extra freshness.
If you’re one of those that think Cilantro tastes like soap, then more Parsley is certainly the way to go!
The Ultimate Falafel Burger
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Fiber | 10-12g |
