Falafel is more than just food; it is a symbol of cultural heritage and identity for many people. In countries like Lebanon this crunchy dish is considered a national dish. It is often enjoyed during family gatherings, festivals, and special occasions. 

Today, June 12th, is International Falafel Day, a special day to celebrate this delicious food. International Falafel Day is all about enjoying and appreciating this delicious food. It's also a chance to learn about the different cultures and traditions.

What is Falafel?

Falafel is a tasty dish usually made by grinding chickpeas or fava beans, mixing them with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander. This mixture is then shaped into small balls or patties and deep-fried until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

Falafel is often served in pita bread or flatbread, along with vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce.

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Representaional Image | Photo: Canva

History of falafel

It is believed to have originated in Egypt many centuries ago where they used fava beans to make this dish. Over the centuries, the recipe travelled to other parts of the Middle East, including Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. In these regions, chickpeas became the main ingredient. Now, falafel is enjoyed worldwide, from street vendors to fine dining restaurants, world wide.

Make your own falafel !

Ingredients:

  • White chickpeas / Kabuli chana: 1 cup
  • Coriander leaves: 2 handfull
  • Garlic: 5 cloves
  • Onion: 1 small
  • Cumin powder: 3/4 tsp
  • Coriander powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Chilli powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Green Chilli: 3-4
  • Black pepper powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
  • Salt: To taste
  • Lemon juice: 1 tbsp

Preparation: 

Soak white chickpeas for 24 hours. Strain the chickpeas. 

In a bowl add chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, coriander leaves, salt, cumin, coriander powder, black pepper, chilli powder, salt and baking soda and mix well.

Grind all the ingredients together in a food processor. Grind coarsely. Do not over turn this into a fine paste.

Now transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add more salt if needed.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 12 hours. 

Later, heat oil in a pan. Meanwhile, form the falafel mixture, scoop and make balls. Once the oil is hot, fry them until golden on both sides.