Sean’s Falafel with Cucumber Sauce

ByIrene Woodward

Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful meal that packs a punch! Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce is a flavorful dish that you can easily make at home. It’s not only tasty but also healthy, making it a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why Make This Recipe

Falafel is a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s packed with protein and full of flavor. The cool cucumber sauce adds a refreshing touch. Plus, making falafel is a fun activity to do with family or friends. You’ll love how easy it is!

How to Make Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce

Ingredients:

1 (6 ounce) container plain yogurt
0.5 cucumber – peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon dried dill weed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
1 onion, chopped
0.5 cup fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 egg
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 dash pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup dry bread crumbs
Oil for frying
2 pita breads, cut in half
1 cup chopped tomatoes

Directions:

  1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, cucumber, mayonnaise, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Make the falafel: In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas until thick and pasty. Avoid using a blender to keep the texture.

  3. Place the onion, parsley, and garlic in a blender and blend until smooth. Stir this mixture into the mashed chickpeas until combined.

  4. In a small bowl, mix the egg, cumin, coriander, salt, lemon juice, baking powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Add this to the chickpea mixture with the olive oil. Slowly mix in the bread crumbs until the mixture holds together but is not sticky. Form the mixture into 8 balls and flatten them into patties.

  5. Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the falafels until they are brown on both sides.

  6. Serve two falafels in each pita half, topped with chopped tomatoes and the cucumber sauce. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce

Serve the falafels warm inside soft pita bread. Top them with fresh tomatoes and a generous spoonful of the cucumber sauce. This makes a delicious meal or snack!

How to Store Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce

If you have any leftovers, store the falafels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the cucumber sauce in a separate container. Reheat the falafels in a skillet or oven before serving.

Tips to Make Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce

  • To get the best flavor, let the sauce chill longer if you can.
  • Don’t mash the chickpeas too much; a chunky texture is nice in falafel.
  • Experiment with spices; add more cumin or herbs to suit your taste.

Variation

You can add chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the falafel mix for extra veggies. If you want a spicy kick, try adding more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the falafels instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a baking sheet with a little olive oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. What can I use instead of chickpeas?
You can try using canned black beans or lentils, but the flavor will be different.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the egg and add an extra spoon of bread crumbs to help bind the mix together.

Enjoy making and sharing Sean's Falafel and Cucumber Sauce with your loved ones!