Description
Jamie Oliver Falafel is a homemade version of the beloved Middle Eastern street food. Using canned or soaked chickpeas, Jamie’s version blends herbs like coriander and parsley with garlic, cumin, and lemon juice to create a flavorful dough. The mixture is shaped into balls or patties and shallow-fried until crisp and golden on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. It’s a healthy, protein-rich dish that can be served in pita, with dips, or as part of a mezze platter.
Ingredients
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Chickpeas – 1 can (400g), drained and rinsed, or 250g soaked (not cooked) dry chickpeas
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Fresh parsley – 1 small bunch, chopped: Adds color and freshness.
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Fresh coriander – 1 small bunch, chopped: Brings a citrusy, herbal note.
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Garlic – 2 cloves: For deep flavor.
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Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon: Gives a warm, earthy taste.
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Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon: Adds complexity.
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Red chili – 1 small (optional): For a touch of heat.
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Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons: Brightens and balances the flavor.
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Plain flour – 2 tablespoons: Helps bind the mixture.
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Salt and black pepper – to taste
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Olive oil or vegetable oil – for shallow frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas and Herbs
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Drain and rinse the chickpeas: Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
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Chop the herbs and garlic: Roughly chop parsley, coriander, and garlic.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
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Use a food processor: Combine chickpeas, herbs, garlic, cumin, coriander, chili (if using), lemon juice, flour, salt, and pepper.
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Pulse until combined: The texture should be coarse—not too smooth—and sticky enough to form into balls.
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Adjust if needed: If too wet, add more flour; if too dry, add a splash of water or lemon juice.
Step 3: Shape the Falafel
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Scoop and form: Shape into small balls or patties using your hands or a spoon.
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Let rest for 10–15 minutes in the fridge: This helps them firm up before frying.
Step 4: Cook the Falafel
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Heat oil in a skillet: Use enough to coat the bottom of the pan.
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Fry in batches: Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
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Drain on paper towels: Remove excess oil and keep them warm while finishing the rest.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
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Serve immediately: Best enjoyed warm with dips or stuffed in pita with salad.