Falafel Pita Sandwich

Crispy falafel in pita bread with tahini sauce and veggies.

Falafel Pita Sandwich:

A Falafel Pita Sandwich is a flavorful, protein-packed, and plant-based meal that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with fresh toppings. Originating from the Middle East, this dish combines crispy falafels, fresh veggies, creamy tahini sauce, and warm pita bread for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

1- For the Falafel:

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, drained)
• ½ cup fresh parsley
• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• ½ small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

2- For the Tahini Sauce:

• ½ cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup water (adjust for consistency)
• Salt to taste

3- For Assembly:

• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 tomato, sliced
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Falafel:
   • In a food processor, blend chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, and garlic until finely ground.
   • Add cumin, coriander, baking soda, flour, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture holds together.
   • Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
   • Shape into small balls or patties.
2. Cook the Falafel:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
   • Fry falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
   • Drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Tahini Sauce:
   • Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until smooth.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
   • Warm pita bread slightly.
   • Fill with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and falafel.
   • Drizzle with tahini sauce.
   • Add pickles if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Falafel Pita Sandwich!

Tips for the Best Falafel Pita Sandwich:

• Homemade vs. Store-Bought Falafel – While homemade falafel is crispier and more flavorful, store-bought or frozen falafels work well for a quick meal.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Adding parsley, cilantro, and dill to your falafel mix gives them a vibrant, authentic taste.
• Crispy Falafel Secret – Frying gives the crispiest texture, but baking or air-frying is a great healthier alternative.
• Perfect Pita Choice – Use soft, fresh pita that can hold all the fillings without breaking. Warm it up before serving for the best experience.
• Layer Smartly – Spread hummus or tahini sauce inside the pita first to keep it from getting soggy, then add falafels, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs for the best bite every time.
• Customize Your Toppings – Try adding pickled onions, feta cheese, olives, or even a spicy harissa sauce for extra flavor!

Enjoy your meal!