National Dish Bahrain: Falafel (Recipe)
In this article
Say hello to Falafel, the crisp little chickpea patties that have travelled from the markets of the Middle East to plates all over the world. Fragrant with cumin, coriander and fresh parsley, these golden bites are wonderful tucked into warm flatbread or served as part of a generous mezze spread. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, they bring the sunny flavours of Arabian cooking straight to your kitchen.
About Falafel
Falafel are more than a tasty snack — they are a cornerstone of Arabic cooking. Native to the Middle East, they have earned a name for themselves across the globe. These small chickpea balls are great fun to prepare and offer an exquisite combination of spices, herbs and a wholly distinctive texture. Whether wrapped in flatbread or served as part of a mezze platter, falafel are a genuine treat for young and old alike.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g chickpeas (dried or tinned)
- 1 small onion
- 2–3 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
The best falafel start with good chickpeas, so choose them with care. Fresh onions and garlic not only deliver the best flavour but also a lovely aromatic depth. Parsley is often underrated, yet it is essential for freshness and colour. Spices such as cumin and coriander are found in any well-stocked spice rack — and they are certainly not something to skimp on!
Preparing the dish
Preparation for falafel begins with soaking the chickpeas, if you are using dried ones. These should soak in water for at least 12 hours to give you the best texture and flavour. Fresh ingredients such as parsley and onion need to be finely chopped so they distribute evenly through the mixture. Getting the balance of spices right is what makes all the difference — and a little experimenting is very much allowed here!
Step-by-step instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas well, then tip them into a food processor with the onion, garlic and parsley.
- Add the spices and a pinch of salt, and blitz everything to a fine paste.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so it firms up.
- Heat the oil in a pan, shape small portions of the mixture and lower them into the hot oil.
- Fry the falafel until golden brown on all sides, then drain on kitchen paper.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
One of the best things about falafel is that they are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. The main ingredient, chickpeas, contains no gluten, which makes them an excellent choice for anyone with intolerances. When cooking, though, do make sure all the other ingredients are gluten-free too, especially the spices and oil. Enjoy your falafel without a second thought, even if you have particular dietary needs! They also sit beautifully alongside a bowl of Creamy Hummus.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Falafel are already an ideal choice for vegans and vegetarians, since they contain no animal products at all. To boost the nutritional value, you can work extra pulses or vegetables into the mixture. Adding seeds such as sesame provides healthy fats and protein. Serve the falafel with a delicious tahini dip or fresh yoghurt to round the dish off nicely.
More tips and tricks
A good falafel has a crisp exterior and a soft centre. To achieve this, it is important that the oil is hot enough before you add the balls. Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or fiery chilli, to find your own personal touch. An alternative method is to bake rather than deep-fry, which cuts the calories without sacrificing the flavour!
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The falafel recipe is wonderfully easy to adjust to your own preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as coriander or mint. The spices can be varied to taste as well. Do you like things hot? Add a hint of cayenne pepper to ramp up the kick! For a heartier meal, pair them with warm Pita Bread or a fresh Tabbouleh.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have chickpeas to hand, you can also use other pulses such as beans. There are even recipes that experiment with quinoa or oats as the base. Just remember to keep an eye on the consistency of the mixture, since the ratio of wet to dry ingredients is crucial to the final result. That way the delicious texture of the falafel stays intact!
Drink pairing ideas
Plenty of drinks make a fine companion for your falafel. A fresh mint tea is a traditional choice that complements their flavours beautifully. A fruity pomegranate or citrus juice can also add a refreshing note. For those who prefer something alcoholic, a light beer or a crisp wine pairs perfectly with the dish’s spiced aromas. A cup of Cardamom Tea is another lovely option.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can be decisive when it comes to enjoying your falafel. Serve them in a colourful flatbread with fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumber and salad leaves. A zesty yoghurt dip or tahini sauce lends the dish a wonderful finish. Garnish with fresh herbs and a few lemon wedges for an extra splash of colour and flavour. A side of Moutabal makes the spread even more inviting.
A bit of history
The story of falafel reaches all the way back to antiquity. Many believe they originated in Egypt and have spread throughout the Arab world ever since. Traditionally they were often served as street food, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. Their popularity owes not only to their taste but also to the healthy ingredients that make them a favourite across so many different diets — a shining example of Bahraini cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Falafel
To sum up, falafel are a true highlight of the culinary world. These delicious chickpea balls are versatile and simple to prepare — whether as a snack or as a main course. Their combination of tasty spices and healthy ingredients makes them an ideal choice for everyone. Savour the flavours and traditions of the Middle East with every delicious bite!
