Falafel with Hummus Plate

A Falafel with Hummus Plate is a classic Middle Eastern dish that brings together crispy, herb-packed falafel balls and creamy, smooth hummus, often accompanied by fresh vegetables, pickles, and pita bread. This hearty and flavorful plate is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein, making it a popular choice among vegetarians and vegans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Falafel with Hummus Plate is the perfect combination of textures and flavors—crispy falafel, silky hummus, and crunchy vegetables all come together in a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for meal prep, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for serving as a main dish or a shared platter at gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

ingredients

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

For the Falafel:

• Dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)

• Onion

• Garlic

• Fresh parsley

• Fresh cilantro

• Ground cumin

• Ground coriander

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

• All-purpose flour or chickpea flour

• Oil for frying

For the Hummus:

• Canned or cooked chickpeas

• Tahini

• Fresh lemon juice

• Garlic

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Water

Optional Additions for the Plate:

• Pita bread

• Sliced cucumbers

• Cherry tomatoes

• Pickled turnips or pickles

• Sliced red onions

• Fresh greens or lettuce

• Olives

directions

1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture:

   • Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor with onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.

   • Pulse until a coarse mixture forms. Add baking powder and flour, and pulse again until the mixture holds together when shaped.

2. Chill the Mixture:

   • Refrigerate the mixture for 30–60 minutes to make it easier to shape and fry.

3. Form and Fry the Falafel:

   • Shape the mixture into balls or patties.

   • Heat oil in a pan or deep fryer and cook falafel until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

   • Remove and drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Hummus:

   • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil.

   • Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.

5. Assemble the Plate:

   • Spread a generous layer of hummus on a plate.

   • Arrange falafel on top or on the side.

   • Add pita, fresh veggies, and pickles to complete the plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (excluding chickpea soaking)
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Baked Falafel: For a lighter version, bake the falafel instead of frying.

• Spicy Hummus: Add roasted red peppers or chili flakes to the hummus for extra heat.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour in the falafel mixture.

• Falafel Wrap: Wrap the ingredients in a pita or flatbread for a portable meal.

• Tahini Sauce Drizzle: Top the plate with a lemony tahini dressing for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness. Hummus can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to one week. If it thickens, stir in a small amount of water or olive oil before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep falafel from falling apart when frying?

Ensure your mixture is well-processed but not too wet. Adding a bit of flour helps bind it. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I use canned chickpeas for falafel?

It is not recommended, as canned chickpeas are too soft. Use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for the best texture.

Is falafel with hummus a complete meal?

Yes, it provides protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced vegetarian meal.

Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 2 days in advance and keep it chilled until ready to fry.

Can I freeze falafel?

Yes, shape the falafel and freeze them raw on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Fry directly from frozen when ready.

What can I use instead of tahini in hummus?

You can substitute with sunflower seed butter or plain yogurt, though the flavor will differ.

What kind of oil is best for frying falafel?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil.

Can I make this recipe oil-free?

Yes, bake the falafel and use water or aquafaba in place of oil in the hummus.

How do I get smooth hummus?

Blend for several minutes, use warm chickpeas, and add cold water slowly until smooth.

Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this dish is naturally vegan and dairy-free, making it ideal for plant-based diets.

Conclusion

A Falafel with Hummus Plate is a wholesome, satisfying dish packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a weeknight meal, its versatility and rich taste make it a go-to recipe. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a taste of the Middle East at home.