How to make Falafel With Tabbouleh and Tahini

This Middle Eastern classic is the perfect addition to any iftar table, combining the delicious flavors of chickpeas, herbs, and spices to make falafel with Tabbouleh which is loaded with crisp veggies tossed in a flavorful dressing and topped with garlicky Tahini Sauce packed with the zesty lime flavors, all wrapped up in a warm and fluffy pita bread.

With Ramadan just around the corner, the excitement of preparing iftar recipes (breaking the fast) sets in. Amongst the plethora of dishes, Falafel with Tabbouleh Salad and Tahini Sauce stands out as one of the best recipes for the Ramadan series of recipes. This delicious and wholesome dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides the necessary nutrients and energy after a long fasting day.

The falafel, made with a combo of soaked chickpeas, herbs and spices, is a rich source of protein and dietary fiber. The Tabbouleh Salad, with its fresh and zesty flavors, provides a burst of vitamins and antioxidants. The Tahini Sauce, made with sesame paste and lemon juice, adds a tangy and flavorful twist to the dish. Wrapping up all of these delicious ingredients in a warm pita bread results in a perfect pick-me-up iftar snack that you’ll make again and again throughout Ramadan.

Can I bake the falafel instead of frying it?

You can bake the falafel in the oven instead of frying them but keep in mind frying falafel gives it a crispy exterior with the perfect amount of crunch while keeping the inside juicy. Baking falafel has a slightly different texture and may not turned out as crispy as fried falafel. However, baking is a healthier option as it uses less oil and can yield a delicious falafel.

In the end, it’s all about personal preference and dietary restrictions. If you prefer a crispy exterior, then frying may be the way to go, but baking is a healthier option as well. To bake falafel, preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the falafel balls on to the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.

Ingredients to make Falafel with Tabbouleh and Tahini Sauce

For Falafel

Chickpeas – Chickpeas are the base of the falafel recipe, a type of legume high in protein and fiber and have a creamy texture.

Parsley – A popular herb used in Mediterranean cuisine, parsley has a fresh and herbaceous flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the falafel mixture.

Cilantro – Cilantro has a slightly citrusy and earthy flavor that adds complexity to the falafel mixture.

Garlic – Garlic has a pungent and savory taste that enhances the flavor of the falafel.

Onion – Imparts a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to the falafel.

Egg – Acts as a binding agent in the falafel mixture, helping to hold everything together. It also adds richness and creaminess to the texture.

Spices – A blend of black pepper, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper or paprika, and garlic powder adds complexity to the falafel mix.

Baking Powder – Helps the falafel to become light and airy when fried, giving it a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Sesame Seeds – For a nutty flavor and perfect crunch to the falafel.

Salt – Enhances the flavor of the falafel and helps to bring out the flavors of other ingredients.

For Tabbouleh Salad

Cracked Wheat – Also known as bulgur, cracked wheat is a type of whole grain that has been partially cooked and dried. It has a chewy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients in the tabbouleh salad.

Tomatoes – Add a juicy and tangy flavor to the tabbouleh salad.

Spring Onions – Also known as scallions, spring onions add a slightly sharp and oniony flavor to the tabbouleh salad.

Lemon Juice – Provides a bright and zesty flavor to the tabbouleh salad dressing.

Sumac – A spice made from dried and ground sumac berries, sumac has a tangy and slightly fruity flavor that adds complexity to the tabbouleh salad dressing.

Dried Mint – Adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the tabbouleh salad dressing.

For Tahini Sauce

Garlic: Garlic adds a savory flavor to Tahini Sauce

Lemon juice: Lemon juice adds a tangy, citrus flavor to Tahini Sauce and also helps to thin out the sauce and make it easier to mix.

Olive oil: Olive oil is a healthy source of fat and adds a rich, flavor to Tahini Sauce

Salt: Salt is added to Tahini Sauce to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients

Tahini paste: The key ingredient  that adds a smooth and creamy texture to the sauce

How to make falafel with tabbouleh salad

Make the Falafel

Soak chickpeas in warm water for 12 hours. Drain, reserving the chickpeas, and place in a food processor with the onion, cilantro, garlic, parsley, egg seasoning it with ground black pepper, ground coriander, paprika, garlic powder and baking powder. Pulse the mixture to form a coarse paste. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Remove from the processor, stir in sesame seeds, and allow the mixture to rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Shape the mixture into small balls.

Fry falafel in oil until nicely browned.

Make Tabbouleh Salad

Prepare dressing in a large bowl by mixing lemon juice, sumac, olive oil, and dry mint—season with salt and pepper to taste. Add soaked cracked wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and spring onions in another bowl. Drizzle enough dressing to moisten the vegetables and mix well to toss and coat.

Make Tahini Sauce

Making Tahini sauce is super simple. All you have to do is grate garlic in a small bowl and add the tahini paste, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until the mixture thickens, then add water to reach your desired consistency. Mix again.

Assemble

Serve the falafel with the Tabbouleh Salad and Tahini Sauce, wrapped in warm pita bread. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips:

• Try adding some freshly chopped mint to your Tabbouleh Salad for a minty twist. This herb complements the parsley and adds a refreshing and cooling taste.
• Make sure you’re using freshly ground spices when making the falafel. It will ensure maximum flavor and aroma in the dish. If you don’t have whole spices to grind yourself, consider purchasing pre-ground spices.
• To make the tahini sauce even more creamy and smooth, add a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt or sour cream. It will add a tangy flavor and help balance the tahini paste’s nuttiness.

Falalfel with Tabbouleh and Tahini Sauce FAQ’s

Can I use canned chickpeas for the falafel instead of soaking them overnight?

While canned chickpeas can be used in a pinch, I recommend using soaked chickpeas for the crispiest texture and best flavor in your falafel.

What is Tahini Paste?

Tahini is a paste made by grinding sesame seeds and it is used as a food condiment. It has a nutty flavor and a smooth texture, which makes it a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Tahini paste is the main ingredient in Tahini Sauce and provides a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Can I make the tahini sauce in advance?

Yes, the tahini sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, you may need to add a little extra water and give it a shake to thin it out before serving.

Can I make the falafel mixture in advance?

Yes, you can make the falafel mixture in advance. Preparing the falafel mixture ahead of time can be very convenient, especially if you’re planning to serve it for an iftar dinner.

To prepare the mixture in advance, follow the recipe and combine all the ingredients as usual. Once the mixture is ready, you can cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to cook the falafel, take the mixture out of the refrigerator and shape it into balls or patties. Then, cook the falafel according to your preferred method, either by frying or baking.

Can I freeze the falafel?

Freezing falafel is an excellent option if you want to make a large batch and save some for later.

To freeze falafel, shape the falafel mixture into balls or patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, put the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until the falafel is frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the falafel to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store it in the freezer for 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to cook the falafel, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once thawed, you can cook the falafel according to your preferred method, either by frying or baking.

Remember that frozen falafel may be slightly more delicate than fresh, so be gentle when handling it. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the falafel is cooked all through.

Can I make the Tabbouleh Salad in advance?

You can make the Tabbouleh Salad a few hours before and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to wait until just before serving to add the dressing to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.