Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?

While canned chickpeas are convenient, they contain more moisture, which may affect the texture of the falafels. If using canned chickpeas, ensure they are well-drained and patted dry.

What can I use as a substitute for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh mint or basil can be used as a substitute, providing a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

Is it possible to bake the falafels instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the falafels on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Falafel Bowl with Tzatziki: A Flavor-Packed Mediterranean

Name: Falafel Bowl with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; Pita bread, to serve; Mixed greens, to serve; Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved; Optional: Red onion, thinly sliced; Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled; Optional: Olives, pitted and sliced; Optional: Quinoa or rice

Description

A Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring crispy falafels, creamy homemade tzatziki, and a customizable bowl of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Pita bread, to serve
Mixed greens, to serve
Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved
Optional: Red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled
Optional: Olives, pitted and sliced
Optional: Quinoa or rice

Instructions

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas thoroughly.
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until coarse but cohesive.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper to make the tzatziki. Chill until ready to serve.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
Form the chickpea mixture into small balls or patties with wet hands.
Fry falafels in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
To serve, layer mixed greens or grains in a bowl, add falafels, and top with tzatziki, pita bread, and any desired add-ins.

Notes

Ensure chickpeas are well-drained and oil is hot before frying. Avoid over-processing the mix for ideal texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: falafel, tzatziki, Mediterranean, vegetarian, bowl, chickpeas