Zaatar Falafel Bites

Introduction to Zaatar Falafel Bites

Falafel, a beloved street food from the Middle East, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Traditionally made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, this crispy and flavorful treat has become a global favorite. Adding a Middle Eastern herb blend like zaatar elevates the classic falafel, marrying the herby, nutty flavors of the mix with the delightful crunch of the falafel. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delectable bite-sized treat that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course.

Ingredients for Zaatar Falafel Bites

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight in water)
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon zaatar blend
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

For serving:

• Tahini sauce
• Pita bread
• Sliced cucumbers
• Diced tomatoes

Preparation Steps

1. Drain the soaked chickpeas and place them in a food processor. Pulse until they are coarsely ground.
2. Add the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro to the food processor. Blend until the mixture is combined but still has some texture.
3. Add the zaatar, cumin, coriander, baking powder, and salt. Pulse the mixture until everything is incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help the flavors meld and to make it easier to shape into balls.

Cooking Process

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (177°C). You can use a cooking timer to keep track of the time you heat the oil.
2. Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the falafel mixture into small, bite-sized balls. If desired, roll them in sesame seeds for extra flavor.
3. Fry the falafel balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes each or until they are golden brown and crispy. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan as this can lower the oil temperature.
4. Remove the falafel bites from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Enjoying Zaatar Falafel Bites

Zaatar falafel bites can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are perfect as a standalone snack or as part of a full meal. Serve them alongside tahini sauce and accompany with fresh pita bread, cucumber slices, and tomato cubes for a refreshing balance. To elevate the experience, consider adding pickles or a squeeze of lemon juice. They also work wonderfully in a salad or as part of a wrap for a more substantial meal.

Historical Notes

The origin of falafel is often debated with roots tracing back to several Middle Eastern cultures, with some believing it originated in Egypt. Traditionally made with fava beans which were more prevalent in the region, chickpeas gradually became the preferred ingredient due to their widespread availability. The addition of zaatar, a herb mixture made predominantly from thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds, adds another layer of historical and cultural richness, as zaatar is a staple in Levantine cuisine. Coupling these ingredients reflects the cultural convergence that makes falafel a universally cherished dish.