introduction
Falafel—those perfectly crispy, golden-brown balls made from ground chickpeas (or sometimes fava beans)—are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and a popular choice for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone who enjoys bold, savory flavors. Whether you like them wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and tahini or served as part of a mezze platter, finding the best falafel near you can be a delicious adventure!
In this guide, we’ll explore tips for locating top-rated falafel spots in your area, what to look for in quality falafel, and some suggestions for how to enjoy your meal to the fullest. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, we’ll even share some falafel-making tips for trying it at home.
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How to Find the Best Falafel Near You
Looking for the best falafel around? Here are a few strategies to ensure you find a spot that serves up fresh, flavorful falafel:
1. Use Restaurant Review Apps
Apps like Yelp, Google Maps, and TripAdvisor are your best friends when searching for local falafel spots. Just type “falafel near me” into the search bar, and these platforms will show nearby restaurants with reviews, photos, and ratings. Be sure to check out what other customers say about the freshness, crispiness, and overall flavor of the falafel.
- Yelp Tip: Look for reviews that mention “crispy on the outside, soft on the inside” or “authentic taste” to gauge quality.
2. Check Out Middle Eastern or Mediterranean Restaurants
Most Middle Eastern or Mediterranean eateries will have falafel on their menu, whether as a wrap, platter, or side dish. These establishments often specialize in making falafel using traditional recipes, ensuring you get an authentic experience.
- Look for these keywords: Shawarma, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, tahini—all signs that you’re likely in the right place for some delicious falafel!
3. Ask for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a great way to discover hidden gems in your city. Ask friends, coworkers, or even locals on social media for their favorite falafel spots.
4. Food Trucks & Farmers Markets
Don’t overlook food trucks or farmers’ markets when searching for falafel! Many vendors serve up incredibly fresh falafel with unique twists. These mobile kitchens often offer quick, tasty options, especially when you’re on the go.
What to Look for in a Good Falafel
Not all falafel is created equal. Here’s what makes a falafel stand out:
1. Crispy Exterior, Soft Interior
A perfect falafel should have a crispy, golden-brown exterior while remaining soft, fluffy, and well-seasoned on the inside. It shouldn’t be greasy or overly dense.
2. Fresh Ingredients
Whether it’s the falafel itself or the accompaniments (like pita, lettuce, cucumbers, or tahini), fresh ingredients make all the difference. Check if the place uses freshly chopped vegetables and fresh herbs in the falafel mix for added flavor and texture.
3. Balance of Spices
Falafel should have a well-balanced spice profile. You should be able to taste hints of garlic, cumin, coriander, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Avoid places where the falafel tastes too bland or overwhelmingly spicy.
4. Customization Options
A great falafel joint will let you customize your wrap or bowl. Look for options like adding hummus, baba ganoush, pickled vegetables, feta, or even hot sauce for an extra kick.
Top Falafel Variations to Try
Once you’ve found a spot with top-notch falafel, the next step is deciding how to enjoy it! Here are a few popular ways to devour falafel:
1. Falafel Wrap
The classic falafel wrap is served in warm pita bread, stuffed with falafel, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and drizzled with tahini sauce. Some wraps also include pickles or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
2. Falafel Platter
If you’re craving more than a wrap, a falafel platter offers falafel served with a variety of sides such as hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and a side of pita or rice. This is a great option if you want a full meal or to share with others.
3. Falafel Salad
For a lighter option, many places offer falafel on a bed of fresh greens with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of tahini or lemon vinaigrette. This is a great gluten-free option if you want to skip the pita bread.
4. Falafel Bowls
Similar to the platter, but more compact, falafel bowls usually include falafel served over a base like rice, quinoa, or couscous with a mix of veggies and sauce. They’re perfect for a hearty yet healthy meal.
Craving DIY Falafel? Try Making It at Home!
If you can’t find a falafel joint nearby or just want to give it a try in your own kitchen, making homemade falafel is easier than you think! Here’s a quick breakdown:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- ½ onion, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, blend the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper until it forms a coarse paste. You don’t want it too smooth—leave some texture!
- Form the Falafel Balls: Scoop out small amounts of the mixture and form them into balls or patties.
- Fry the Falafel: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel balls for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy your homemade falafel in a wrap, salad, or on their own with a side of hummus.
Pro Tip: You can also bake falafel for a healthier alternative. Simply brush them with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is falafel gluten-free?
Yes, falafel itself is naturally gluten-free as it’s made from chickpeas and spices. However, if you’re ordering it in a wrap or platter, double-check that any sauces or pita served alongside are also gluten-free.
2. Is falafel vegan?
Typically, falafel is vegan since it’s made with plant-based ingredients. However, be sure to confirm that no animal products (like egg or dairy) are used in the dough or frying process if you follow a strict vegan diet.
3. Can I freeze falafel?
Yes, falafel freezes well! After frying, let the falafel cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick meal.
4. What’s the difference between falafel and hummus?
While both falafel and hummus are made from chickpeas, falafel is a fried or baked ball or patty, while hummus is a smooth dip made by blending chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Wrapping It All Up
Whether you’re grabbing falafel from your local Middle Eastern eatery or making it fresh at home, this delicious, protein-packed snack is sure to satisfy your cravings. Use apps and recommendations to find the best falafel spots near you, or give the DIY route a try and impress your friends and family with homemade falafel.
Enjoy your next falafel adventure, and don’t forget to pair it with some creamy hummus or a side of crispy pita chips for the ultimate experience!