Description
A delightful twist on traditional falafel, made with beets for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium beet, cooked and peeled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, cooked beet, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour until fully incorporated. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour until it holds together.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture and shape it into a ball or patty. Carefully place it in the hot oil. Repeat with the remaining mixture, being sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the falafel for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with tahini sauce, yogurt, or in pita bread with fresh vegetables.
Notes
- For a baked version, preheat the oven to 400°F, shape the falafel, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor, or mix in grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Easy Beet Falafel, Beet Falafel, Vegetarian Falafel