Description
Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromas, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold spices. One of the most popular dishes from this region is the falafel wrap, typically served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making a delicious Middle Eastern falafel wrap with tzatziki.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 pita breads
- Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
- Chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion for garnish
- Fresh parsley and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
- Transfer the chickpea mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour. Gradually add the olive oil, mixing until the mixture is well combined and forms a thick paste.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- When ready to cook the falafel, heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the chickpea mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly into patties.
- Cook the falafel for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain the falafel on paper towels and set aside.
- To make the tzatziki sauce, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- To assemble the falafel wrap, warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for a few minutes. Spread a layer of tzatziki sauce on each pita bread, followed by a few falafel patties, some chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cilantro.
Notes
For an extra crispy falafel, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying. You can also bake the falafel in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. To make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time, prepare the sauce without the yogurt and refrigerate for up to a day. Stir in the yogurt just before serving.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 304
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 31
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 9