Short description
Golden, crunchy falafels wrapped in warm flatbread with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce for a wholesome Middle Eastern favourite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This falafel wrap brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavours. The crispy falafel patties are complemented by fresh vegetables and a rich tahini sauce, all encased in soft flatbread. It’s a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

For Serving:

• 4 flatbreads or pita breads
• 1 cup lettuce leaves
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup tahini sauce

Directions

1. Drain the soaked chickpeas and pat them dry.
2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse and holds together.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the falafel patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Warm the flatbreads.
6. To assemble, place lettuce and diced tomatoes on each flatbread, add the falafel patties, and drizzle with tahini sauce. Fold the flatbread around the filling and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Baked Falafel: For a healthier version, bake the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Spicy Falafel: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the falafel mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flatbreads or lettuce wraps instead of pita.
• Additional Toppings: Include sliced cucumbers, pickled turnips, or olives for extra flavour.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover falafel patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat falafel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispness.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. Drain and rinse them thoroughly, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

How do I prevent falafel from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well-blended but not too smooth. If it’s too wet, add a bit of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it.

Can I freeze falafel?

Yes, freeze uncooked falafel patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of tahini sauce?

You can substitute tahini with hummus, yogurt-based sauces, or a simple lemon-garlic dressing.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.

How can I make the wrap spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling.

Can I make falafel without frying?

Yes, baking or air-frying falafel are great alternatives to frying and can yield a healthier result.

What type of bread is best for wrapping?

Soft pita bread or flatbreads work best for wrapping falafel and holding the fillings together.

How do I make the tahini sauce?

Mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

What sides pair well with this wrap?

Serve with a side of tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad.

Conclusion

The Crispy Falafel Wrap with Fresh Veggies & Tahini Sauce offers a delightful combination of textures and flavours. It’s a versatile dish that can be customised to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy this Middle Eastern classic as a satisfying meal any day of the week.

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