Popular in the Middle East, particularly in Israel, where it is regarded as the national food, falafel is a fried ball or patty made from fava beans and chickpeas combined with spices. Falafel is a common fast food sold by street vendors in the Middle East and is usually served with lettuce and other vegetables wrapped in pita. Falafel balls can also be eaten as an appetizer, or crushed to use as a crunchy and flavorful salad topping.
Featured Video: Making Falafel from Scratch
Chef Brian McCarthy demonstrates the making of falafel from scratch. Don't be afraid to use dried garbanzo beans instead of canned. Soak them a day ahead of time so they will be ready. You can deep fry or pan fry.
References
Fast Facts
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Eaten during Ramadan as part of Iftar
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McDonald's restaurants in Egypt serve a McFalafel sandwich
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Originated in Egypt
