Falafel is a classic Lebanese dish made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s packed with flavor and goes perfectly with creamy tahini dressing.

We’re going to show you how to make this beloved snack step by step, so you can enjoy it fresh at home.

Ingredients for Falafel (8 servings)

- 1 pound (450g) dried chickpeas

- ½ cup (15g) fresh parsley

- 1 medium onion, quartered

- 2 garlic cloves

- 2 tablespoons (15g) flour

- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

- 1 teaspoon (2g) black pepper

- 1 teaspoon (2g) ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon (2g) all-spice

- 1 teaspoon (4g) baking powder

- Canola or vegetable oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of a pan)

- 2 tablespoons (optional) sesame seeds

Ingredients for Tahini Dressing:

- ½ cup (120g) tahini

- 3 tablespoons (45ml) lemon juice

- 2 tablespoons (30ml) water, adjust for desired consistency

- 1 garlic clove, minced

- ½ teaspoon (3g) salt

- 1 teaspoon (5ml) olive oil

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

1. Place 1 pound dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water.

2. Soak for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, or up to 24 hours.

3. After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a towel.

Tip: Properly soaked chickpeas are essential to hold the falafel shape and cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Falafel Mix

1. Place the soaked chickpeas in a food processor. Pulse for 1–2 minutes until coarsely ground.

2. Add ¼ cup chopped parsley, quartered onion, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon all-spice.

3. Process until the mixture forms a thick, sticky paste. It should hold together when pressed.

4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

5. After chilling, fold in 1 teaspoon baking powder gently. This will make falafel lighter and fluffier when fried.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

1. Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and form them into balls or small patties using your hands.

2. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

3. Place shaped falafel on a plate while preparing the oil.

Step 4: Fry the Falafel

1. Pour enough oil into a frying pan to cover the bottom generously. Heat over medium heat.

2. Carefully place falafel balls in the hot oil, leaving space between each piece.

3. Fry for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Remove the falafel and place on thick paper towels to drain excess oil.

Optional: For a lighter version, preheat oven to 450°F (232°C), drizzle falafel with a little oil, and bake for 4–5 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Tahini Dressing

1. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup tahini, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ teaspoon salt.

2. Gradually add 2 tablespoons water until the dressing is creamy and pourable. Adjust water to reach desired thickness.

3. Drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil on top for extra richness.

Step 6: Serve

1. Arrange the hot falafel on a serving plate.

2. Drizzle generously with tahini dressing.

3. Optional: Serve with fresh cucumber, tomato, lettuce, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

Step 7: Storage Tips

- Extra falafel can be frozen for up to two months. Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

- Tahini dressing can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Cooking Made Easy!

Homemade Lebanese falafel with tahini dressing is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and clear steps, we can enjoy crispy, aromatic falafel anytime. Lykkers, don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it unique. Once you try this, it will become a staple in our kitchen!