Falafel Balls with Tzatziki Recipe

Imagine a bright, sunny day where the fresh Mediterranean breeze carries with it the scent of aromatic herbs and the sound of laughter shared among family. It’s the perfect time to indulge in a delightful meal that not only nourishes the body but also the soul. Our Falafel Balls with Tzatziki Recipe is like a mini vacation to the Mediterranean right in your kitchen. Crispy golden falafel, creamy and tangy tzatziki, fresh baby cucumbers, and warm pita bread come together to create a lunch that is both satisfying and light. This recipe is a wonderful opportunity to gather the family around the kitchen, enjoy some fun cooking time, and share a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 2-3 tbsp flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, finely grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh baby cucumbers, sliced
• Pita bread, warmed

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, and flour. Process until the mixture is well combined and smooth but not pureed.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and set them on a plate.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the falafel balls and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. To make the tzatziki sauce, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve the crispy falafel balls with the tzatziki sauce, sliced baby cucumbers, and warm pita bread. For an added touch, include a small bowl of olives and lemon wedges to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

Helpful Tips

For Beginners: If it’s your first time making falafel, try baking the falafel balls at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, for a healthier version.

Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your falafel mixture for a spicy kick, or include finely chopped mint in your tzatziki for a refreshing twist.

Storage: Store any leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Substitutions: Use plain soy yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative. In place of traditional flour, try chickpea flour for a gluten-free option.

Pairings

These falafel balls pair wonderfully with a refreshing side salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. For drinks, a chilled glass of mint lemonade or a light iced tea complements the meal perfectly.

At Zynahz, we believe that cooking is not just about creating meals but also about building memories. We hope this Falafel Balls with Tzatziki Recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to ours. We encourage you to share your delightful experience and photos with us using #ZynahzRecipes. Spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to explore more of our inspiring recipes. Follow us on social media for daily kitchen creativity and sign up for our newsletter to get the latest delicious updates. Happy cooking!