Falafel is an iconic Middle Eastern food that has been intriguing and delighting the taste buds of many for centuries.
It’s a simple dish, a combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices that come together to create a hearty and flavorful dish.
Whether enjoyed as street food, at a restaurant, or from vegetarian-friendly falafel balls at home, this delicious dish is sure to please.
But what is the true origin of falafel, and what does it taste like? In this blog post, we will explore falafel’s history, taste, and ingredients.
So, What Does Falafel Taste Like?
Ah, falafel. This tasty Middle Eastern staple has become a popular dish worldwide.
Whether you are familiar with it or not, you’ve likely heard of falafel, eaten it, or want to give it a try. So, what does falafel taste like?
The answer is simple and complex at the same time. Falafel has a unique flavor that is herby, savory, and filling all at once.
But to be more specific, falafel combines chickpeas, spices, and herbs that come together in the most flavor-filled way imaginable.
First, falafel begins with the base ingredient – chickpeas.
Chickpeas are combined with spices and herbs to form the falafel ball – a small ball that is typically fried and served with a side of hummus. Chickpeas provide a wonderful nutty flavor and texture when blended with spices and herbs.
The spices and herbs used in falafel vary depending on the cuisine or recipe.
Common herbs include parsley, cilantro, and mint. Spices usually used in making falafel include coriander, cumin, and sumac.
These flavors blend together to create the wonderful taste of falafel.
When fried, chickpeas, herbs, and spices create a flavorful, moist center.
The outer layer of the falafel ball is crunchy, providing a satisfying contrast to the inner filling. The combination of two textures makes falafel a delicious treat.
Moreover, depending on the cooking method, falafel can range from crunchy and fried to soft and fluffy.
It is also important to note that the flavor of falafel can be mild or extremely spicy.
You can customize the flavor of falafel to your taste by adding more or fewer herbs and spices.
Texture of Falafel
No matter which way you prepare them, falafel is always a delicious treat.
If you’re looking for something new to add to your repertoire, give falafel a try! With its unique taste and texture, falafel is sure to please.
The most noticeable aspect of falafel is its texture. Authentic falafel is crunchy and slightly grainy on the outside and fluffy and moist on the inside.
It’s usually a few inches in diameter, and can be served as a patty or in small balls.
The flavor of falafel is often described as nutty and earthy.
A combination of spices like parsley, cumin, and coriander gives it a distinct aroma, and a coating of sesame seeds adds a bit of nuttiness.
When it comes to comparison, falafel can be thought of as a vegetarian alternative to other fried dishes like french fries and chicken nuggets.
It has a similar complexion but is slightly softer in texture. The earthy spice combination gives falafel its own unique flavor, making it stand out.
Overall, falafel has a wonderful texture and flavor that make it a great option for a snack or light meal.
The flavor is nutty and earthy, and its texture is a delicious combination of crunchy and fluffy.
Preferred Methods of Cooking Falafel
When it comes to cooking falafel, there are a few different preferred methods.
Deep-frying is traditionally the most popular option, as it helps to bring out the nutty flavor of the falafel and maintain its crunchy exterior.
Other heat sources, such as an oven or stovetop, also work to cook your falafel, but deep-frying is generally more successful in preserving the unique flavor and texture of falafel.
In order to make the most out of your falafel, it’s important to select the right combination of ingredients and spices to bring out the flavor.
If you’re unsure where to start, recipes with chickpeas, parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper are great. Once you’ve found the right mix, cook your falafel properly in the most preferred method. This will ensure a flavorful and delicious dish every time!
No matter which ingredients or spices you decide to use, deep-frying is the best option for cooking your falafel to perfection.
By deep-frying, you bring out the nutty flavor and crunch of the falafel while maintaining its unique taste. With this method, you’ll always have a delicious and flavorful dish. So why not try your own falafel soon and enjoy this special experience?
Concluding Thoughts
Simply put, falafel has a delicious nutty, earthy flavor and can be enjoyed in many different dishes.
The chickpea and spice combination is unlike any other and can be enjoyed alone or with a side of tahini and pickles.
Whether served as a traditional deep-fried ball or a thinner pan-fried patty, falafel is sure to delight your taste buds.
