Falafel Sandwich Recipe
Crispy golden falafel, fresh veggies, tangy pickles and creamy tahini sauce—all wrapped up in warm pita. This sandwich is an explosion of flavor and texture!
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Why I Love a Proper Falafel Sandwich
There’s something magical about biting into a fresh falafel sandwich. The crispy exterior of the falafel yields to a flavorful, tender interior, with every bite perfectly complemented by crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and briny pickles. The tahini ties it all together with its nutty richness.
What stands out to me is the versatility—there’s no strict set of toppings required. Some of my favorite ways to enjoy a falafel sandwich include:
- adding spicy zhoug for heat
- stuffing in pickled turnips or red onions
- drizzling extra tahini or feta dressing
Falafel sandwiches are my go-to lunch when I want something hearty but still fresh and healthy. I love that you can make a big batch of falafel ahead of time and build your sandwich just how you want it, every time.
Crispy Falafel Sandwich with Fresh Toppings
Golden, crispy falafel packed into warm pita with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and creamy tahini.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Falafel Mixture: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms.
- 2
Form the Falafel Balls: Shape the mixture into small balls or patties using your hands.
- 3
Fry the Falafel: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- 4
Assemble the Sandwich: Cut the pita bread in half and stuff each half with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and hot falafel. Drizzle with tahini sauce or your favorite dressing before serving.
- 5
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your homemade falafel sandwich while still warm, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Notes
Soak chickpeas overnight for best texture.
Serve wrapped in gluten-free pita for a gluten-free option.
Add extra herbs or spices to customize the flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Serves: 4 sandwiches
Calories Per Serving: 350
Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe
Yes, you can bake or air-fry falafel at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through, though they may not be quite as crispy as the traditional fried version.
Yes, raw shaped falafel balls can be frozen. Freeze them on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. Fry from frozen or thaw before cooking.
Classic toppings include lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and a drizzle of tahini. You can also add cucumbers, fresh herbs, or a spicy sauce.
The falafel balls themselves are naturally vegan and gluten-free. Use a gluten-free wrap or pita, and a vegan sauce if you want the entire sandwich vegan and gluten-free.
