Falafel wraps are a flavorful and nutritious dish, combining crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, and a choice of delicious sauces wrapped in soft pita bread or a gluten-free alternative. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy snack, this recipe is fully customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the classic Middle Eastern flavors in the comfort of your home with this simple, healthy recipe!
1 Parchment paper or foil (for wrapping falafel wrap)
1 Knife for chopping vegetables
1 Cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
1 Small bowl (for sauces)
Ingredients
For the Falafel:
1 ½cups240g cooked chickpeas (or 1 can)
1small onionfinely chopped (½ cup)
2clovesgarlicminced
1cup30g fresh parsley, chopped
1cup30g fresh cilantro, chopped
2tablespoonsflouror chickpea flour for gluten-free option
2teaspoonsground cumin
1teaspoonground coriander
1teaspoonground paprika
½teaspooncayenne pepperoptional, for heat
Salt and pepperto taste
2tablespoonsolive oilfor frying or baking
1teaspoonbaking powder
For the Wrap:
4pita breads or gluten-free wraps
1cup50g lettuce, shredded
1cucumbersliced
1tomatosliced
½small red onionthinly sliced
½cup80g pickled vegetables (optional)
½cuptahini sauce or yogurt-based sauceoptional
Instructions
Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together when pressed.
Add flour and baking powder, then pulse again until fully incorporated. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour until it holds its shape.
Shape the Falafel:
With wet hands, shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
Cook the Falafel:
For frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the falafel for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
For baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Prepare the Wrap:
While the falafel is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the cucumber, tomato, and onion, and shred the lettuce.
Assemble the Wrap:
Lay a pita or gluten-free wrap flat on a surface. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, followed by cucumber, tomato, and onion slices.
Place 2-3 falafel balls on top and drizzle with your choice of tahini sauce, yogurt sauce, or any other preferred dressing.
Add any optional pickled vegetables and fold the wrap tightly.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful and nutritious falafel wrap!
Notes
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves instead of pita.
Storage: Store leftover falafel separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze falafel and reheat in the oven.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the falafel mixture the night before and refrigerate. Shape and cook the falafel fresh when ready to assemble.
Alternative Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like hummus, tahini yogurt sauce, or even a spicy harissa for more flavor.
For a Crispy Exterior: If baking, spray the falafel with a little olive oil before baking to help achieve a crisp exterior.