Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts with Garlicky Green Tahini are a delicious and healthy option for lunch or dinner. They are packed with flavor, easy to make, and full of nutritious ingredients. This dish is perfect for anyone wanting a plant-based meal that satisfies cravings for something crunchy and fresh.
How to Make Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup greens (like spinach or arugula)
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
For the Garlicky Green Tahini:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- Water to thin
Directions:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, tahini, sesame seeds, cumin, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Blend until a coarse mixture forms.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the falafel until golden and crispy.
- While falafel cooks, prepare the Garlicky Green Tahini by blending tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and adding water until the desired consistency.
- Serve the crispy falafel in pita breads, topped with greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, drizzled with Garlicky Green Tahini.
How to Serve Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts
These falafel melts are best served warm, straight from the pan. Place the crispy falafel in soft pita breads and fill them with fresh greens, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the Garlicky Green Tahini for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Store Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts
If you have leftovers, store the extra falafel and tahini separately. Place the falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tahini can also be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for the same time. When ready to eat, you will want to reheat the falafel to regain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts
- Don’t Over-Blend: Keep the mixture chunky for better texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your taste.
- Fry or Bake: If you want a lighter option, you can bake the falafel instead of frying them. Just brush them with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden.
Variation
You can add different vegetables to your falafel mixture, such as grated carrots or zucchini. You can also swap out the greens, using kale or romaine instead of spinach or arugula.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the falafel?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked falafel. Place each ball on a tray, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for about 2 months.
2. What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use peanut butter or sunseed butter as a substitute.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free pita breads or skip the bread altogether and serve the falafel on a salad or in a bowl.
Crispy Sesame Falafel Melts
Ingredients
Method
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, tahini, sesame seeds, cumin, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Blend until a coarse mixture forms.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the falafel until golden and crispy.
- While falafel cooks, prepare the Garlicky Green Tahini by blending tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and adding water until the desired consistency.
- Serve the crispy falafel in pita breads, topped with greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, drizzled with Garlicky Green Tahini.