Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern classic known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Our Smash Falafel Recipe puts a fresh twist on this traditional dish by using a simple technique that creates a perfect crunch while keeping the inside soft and moist. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy falafel without compromising on taste or texture.
We love how versatile smash falafel can be—whether served in a pita with fresh veggies and tahini or as a protein-packed snack on its own. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into making falafel that’s crispy, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Smash Falafel, having the right ingredients is essential. Below we break down everything you need for the falafel, the sauce, and optional garnishes to elevate your dish.
For the Falafel
We start with high-quality, fresh components that will deliver the ideal crispy yet tender falafel.
- 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked 8-12 hours, drained)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
For the Sauce
Our sauce choice enhances the falafel with creamy, tangy notes that balance the spices perfectly.
- ½ cup tahini paste
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for richness)
Optional Garnishes
To customize your Smash Falafel and add texture and freshness, consider these vibrant toppings:
- Sliced cucumbers
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickled turnips or red onions
- Fresh mint leaves
- Chopped scallions
- Hot sauce or harissa paste
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Falafel | Chickpeas, parsley, cumin, baking powder | Base, seasoning, texture enhancer |
| Sauce | Tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water | Creaminess, acidity, flavor balance |
| Garnishes | Cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled veggies, mint | Freshness, crunch, optional heat |
Pro Tip: Soaking chickpeas overnight is crucial for achieving the authentic falafel texture without using canned chickpeas.
Equipment Needed
To master the Smash Falafel Recipe, having the right equipment is crucial. Each tool plays a role in achieving the perfect texture and crispiness that defines this dish. Here’s what we need:
- Food Processor
Essential for grinding the soaked chickpeas and blending them with herbs and spices. A high-quality processor ensures the mixture is coarse enough to hold together but light enough for a tender interior.
- Mixing Bowls
Use medium to large bowls for combining ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls are ideal to avoid any unwanted flavors.
- Fine Mesh Strainer
Required for rinsing chickpeas after soaking to remove excess starch and prevent sogginess in the falafel.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements guarantee consistent flavor and texture. We recommend stainless steel spoons for durability.
- Cast Iron or Non-stick Skillet
To achieve that coveted crispy exterior, a heavy-bottomed skillet is best. It retains heat evenly and allows the falafel to cook uniformly.
- Spatula or Fish Turner
A thin, sturdy spatula helps us gently flip the smashed falafel without breaking them apart.
- Paper Towels or Cooling Rack
Draining excess oil after frying is essential to maintain crispiness without greasiness.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor | Grinding chickpeas and herbs | Should have strong blades for rough texture |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | Use glass or stainless steel |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Rinsing and draining chickpeas | Removes excess starch |
| Measuring Tools | Accurate ingredient measurement | Stainless steel preferred |
| Cast Iron/Non-stick Skillet | Frying falafel to crisp perfection | Heavy-bottomed for even heat distribution |
| Spatula/Fish Turner | Flipping falafel without breaking | Thin and flexible for careful handling |
| Paper Towels/Cooling Rack | Draining oil | Maintains crunch and reduces oiliness |
Preparation
To create the perfect Smash Falafel, precise preparation is crucial. We’ll guide you through soaking the chickpeas and preparing fresh herbs and vegetables step-by-step to ensure vibrant flavors and ideal texture.
Soaking the Chickpeas
Soaking the chickpeas properly is the foundation for a tender yet crispy falafel. Follow these steps:
- Measure 1 cup of dried chickpeas.
- Rinse them thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove any debris.
- Place the chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of cold water.
- Soak them overnight for 12 to 24 hours to soften fully and activate enzymes that improve digestibility.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas again.
- Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to reduce excess moisture before processing.
| Step | Description | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Rinse Chickpeas | Clean with cold water in a fine mesh strainer | 1-2 minutes |
| Soak Chickpeas | Submerge in water, cover well | 12-24 hours |
| Drain & Dry | Rinse then pat dry | 5 minutes |
Pro tip: Never use canned chickpeas for this recipe; dried chickpeas soaked overnight yield the best texture and flavor for our Smash Falafel.
Preparing Fresh Herbs and Vegetables
Fresh herbs and vegetables add brightness and depth to our Smash Falafel. Here’s how to prepare them efficiently:
- Parsley: Use 1 cup of fresh parsley, firmly packed. Rinse, shake off excess water, and chop finely.
- Cilantro: Measure ½ cup of fresh cilantro leaves, rinse, and chop finely. Remove thick stems for a smoother texture.
- Onion: Peel and dice 1 medium yellow onion finely to mix into the falafel.
- Garlic: Crush and mince 3 cloves of garlic for bold flavor.
- Optional Garnishes: Slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickled vegetables thinly to serve alongside.
Keep these prepared ingredients close by for easy incorporation into the falafel mixture and garnish assembly.
| Ingredient | Preparation Steps | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Parsley | Rinse, dry, and finely chop | 1 cup (packed) |
| Cilantro | Rinse, remove stems, finely chop | ½ cup |
| Onion | Peel and finely dice | 1 medium |
| Garlic | Peel and mince | 3 cloves |
| Garnishes | Slice thinly | As desired |
Smash Falafel Recipe Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create crispy and flavor-packed Smash Falafel that perfectly balance crunch and tenderness with every bite.
Making the Falafel Mixture
- Drain and dry the soaked chickpeas thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing moisture is key to achieving the ideal crispy texture.
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic cloves, fresh parsley, and cilantro.
- Add in the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper for seasoning.
- Pulse the ingredients in short bursts until you achieve a coarse grainy texture. Avoid overprocessing into a paste; the mixture should hold together but retain some texture.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Stir in the baking powder and 2 tablespoons of flour to help bind the mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up slightly.
| Ingredient | Preparation Detail |
|---|---|
| Soaked chickpeas | Drained and patted dry |
| Onion | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | Minced |
| Fresh parsley & cilantro | Chopped |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Baking powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
Forming the Falafel Patties
- Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, take about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture.
- Gently form into rough balls, then place them on a flat surface like a cutting board.
- Using the bottom of a flat spatula or the back of a spoon, smash each ball into a thick patty approximately ¾ inch thick.
- Place the smashed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Keep the patties uniform in size and thickness to promote even cooking and consistent crispiness.
Cooking the Smash Falafel
- Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about ¼ inch.
- Once the oil is shimmering hot but not smoking (around 350°F), carefully place the smashed falafel patties in the skillet.
- Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until a deep golden brown crust forms.
- Use a spatula to gently flip each patty without breaking it.
- After cooking, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate or a cooling rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness alongside fresh vegetables and creamy tahini sauce.
| Cooking Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oil depth | ¼ inch vegetable oil |
| Heat level | Medium (350°F) |
| Cooking time per side | 3 to 4 minutes |
| Final texture | Deep golden brown crust |
Sauce Preparation
To complement our smash falafel, we prepare a creamy tahini sauce that balances the crispy falafel’s rich flavors with its smooth texture and subtle nuttiness. Follow these steps precisely for the perfect sauce consistency and taste.
Ingredients for Tahini Sauce
- 1/2 cup tahini paste (well-stirred)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 small clove garlic (minced or grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey for mild sweetness
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Sauce Preparation
- Combine tahini and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Stir vigorously until the mixture thickens and lightens in color. This whipping step is essential to prevent the tahini from becoming grainy.
- Gradually add cold water one tablespoon at a time while stirring. Adjust the amount until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and sea salt thoroughly. Taste the sauce and adjust salt or lemon juice to balance acidity and savoriness.
- For a hint of sweetness, fold in maple syrup or honey. This step is optional but recommended to enhance flavor complexity.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Pro Tip: If the tahini sauce becomes too thick, add cold water incrementally to loosen it without diluting flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Tahini paste | 1/2 cup | Base for creamy texture |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup | Adds acidity and brightness |
| Cold water | 1/4 cup | Adjusts consistency |
| Garlic | 1 small clove | Adds pungent depth |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 teaspoon | Provides warm earthy notes |
| Fine sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
| Maple syrup/honey | 1 teaspoon (opt.) | Balances acidity |
| Fresh parsley | Garnish | Adds color and freshness |
This tahini-based sauce is the ideal accompaniment to our smash falafel, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors that enhances every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying Smash Falafel goes beyond the patty itself. We’ll explore how to assemble a perfect sandwich and what sides and garnishes truly elevate this crispy delight.
Assembling a Smash Falafel Sandwich
Building a delicious Smash Falafel sandwich starts with the right foundation. We recommend using warm, soft pita bread or a sturdy flatbread to hold all the flavors together without falling apart.
Steps for assembling:
- Warm the bread: Heat pita or flatbread briefly in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
- Layer with sauce: Spread a generous amount of creamy tahini sauce on the bread. This adds a tangy, smooth base.
- Add fresh vegetables: Include sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for crunch and freshness.
- Add falafel patties: Place 2 to 3 Smash Falafel patties onto the bread. Make sure they are still crisp and warm.
- Top with herbs and pickles: Add fresh parsley or cilantro and some pickled turnips or jalapenos for bursts of flavor.
- Optional drizzle: Finish with an extra drizzle of tahini sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
“This layering technique brings out the best of Smash Falafel — crispy texture, creamy sauce, and vibrant freshness in every bite.”
Serving with Sides and Garnishes
To create a full meal centered around Smash Falafel, pairing the patties with the right sides and garnishes is essential. These elements not only complement the flavors but also provide balance through texture and temperature contrast.
| Side/Garnish | Description | Purpose/Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Tabbouleh Salad | Chopped parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, mint with lemon dressing | Adds bright, herbaceous zest and freshness |
| Pickled Vegetables | Turnips, cucumbers, jalapenos pickled in vinegar | Offers tangy crunch and acidity |
| Hummus | Smooth chickpea dip with olive oil and lemon | Creamy, rich texture that complements falafel |
| Crisp Greens | Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens lightly dressed | Adds peppery bite and freshness |
| Lemon Wedges | Fresh-cut lemon slices | Boosts brightness with citrus acidity |
We find that serving Smash Falafel alongside crisp pickled vegetables and a light, herbaceous salad brings balance to the meal. Drizzling additional tahini sauce or a zesty garlic yogurt sauce on the side can elevate the flavors even further.
For an extra touch of indulgence, roasted eggplant or baba ganoush pairs beautifully with the falafel’s earthy chickpea base, providing a smoky and creamy complement.
We encourage experimenting with these serving suggestions to discover your perfect Smash Falafel meal combination.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Smash Falafel with ease on busy days, preparation in advance is key. Here’s how we can optimize the process without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
Preparing the Falafel Mixture Ahead of Time
- After blending chickpeas, herbs, spices, and binders, transfer the falafel mixture into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and improves texture for frying.
- Before cooking, give the mixture a gentle stir to re-incorporate any separation.
Forming and Storing Falafel Patties
- Shape the falafel mixture into uniform patties right after mixing.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray without overcrowding.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Optionally, freeze uncooked patties in a single layer on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating and Serving
- Reheat cooked falafel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- Serve immediately with fresh tahini sauce and garnishes for the best experience.
| Step | Timeframe | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falafel mixture | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container, fridge | Stir before shaping |
| Formed patties | Up to 24 hours | Covered tray, fridge | Maintain shape, avoid overcrowding |
| Uncooked patties (frozen) | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe bag | Freeze individually first, then bag |
| Reheated falafel | Immediate | Oven | Preheat oven to 350°F for crisp texture |
“Pro Tip: For maintaining that signature crisp exterior and tender interior, always reheat falafel in the oven instead of the microwave.”
By incorporating these Make-Ahead Tips, we can enjoy delicious Smash Falafel anytime, turning a quick meal into a hassle-free delight.
Conclusion
Smash Falafel offers a fresh and exciting way to enjoy a classic favorite. Its crispy exterior and tender inside make every bite satisfying, while the quick preparation fits perfectly into busy schedules. With versatile serving options and a delicious tahini sauce, it’s easy to customize this dish to suit any taste.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, Smash Falafel brings vibrant flavors and textures to the table. Give this recipe a try and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a memorable meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smash Falafel?
Smash Falafel is a crispy and tender variation of traditional falafel. It features a crunchy exterior achieved by frying flattened patties made from soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, resulting in perfect texture and flavor.
What ingredients are needed for Smash Falafel?
Key ingredients include dried chickpeas, onion, garlic, fresh herbs (like parsley and cilantro), spices, baking powder, and flour. These create the ideal texture and enhance the flavor of the falafel.
How do you prepare chickpeas for Smash Falafel?
Soak dried chickpeas in water for 12 to 24 hours, then drain and dry them thoroughly before processing. This step ensures the falafel mixture has the right moisture for crispiness.
What equipment is essential for making Smash Falafel?
You’ll need a food processor for grinding chickpeas, mixing bowls, a fine mesh strainer for rinsing, measuring cups and spoons, a skillet for frying, a spatula for flipping, and paper towels or a cooling rack to drain oil.
How do you cook Smash Falafel to get it crispy?
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the falafel patties until they are deep golden brown. Flip carefully to cook both sides evenly, then drain excess oil before serving.
What is the best way to serve Smash Falafel?
Serve Smash Falafel immediately for maximum crunch. It pairs well in warm pita with fresh vegetables, creamy tahini sauce, and optional garnishes like pickles, herbs, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
How is the tahini sauce made for Smash Falafel?
Combine tahini paste with lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then whisk and thin with cold water until smooth. You can add sweetness with maple syrup or honey for a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Can Smash Falafel be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Patties can also be shaped and refrigerated or frozen, then reheated in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Are fresh herbs important in Smash Falafel?
Yes, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add brightness and depth to the flavor, enhancing the overall taste and making the falafel more vibrant and aromatic.
What are some popular garnishes or sides with Smash Falafel?
Common garnishes include cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Sides like tabbouleh salad, hummus, crisp greens, and lemon wedges complement the dish nicely.