Are you looking for a dish that satisfies your craving for Middle Eastern Falafel while also serving as a great Vegetarian Recipe in your arsenal? Look no further than the ultimate guide to making the perfect falafel burger at home. While I may personally be a Meatatarian, I appreciate the flavors of this Middle Eastern Street food and also like having a few vegetarian options in my arsenal for when my Vegetarian friends come over. Plus, I think we can all agree that it’s nice to have some pantry staple dishes in our repertoire! This recipe uses inexpensive garbanzo beans, fresh herbs and spices making it a tasty AND economical dish.
This falafel burger version saves a ton of time over traditional falafel recipes because it uses canned garbanzo beans versus uncooked garbanzo beans found in traditional falafel, eliminating the need to soak beans overnight saving hours of prep time. This recipe has become my new favorite veggie burger for good reason- the flavors are so, so good!
From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of shaping and frying the perfect falafel patty, this guide has you covered. But we don’t stop there – we’ll also guide you through the process of creating a tantalizing tzatziki sauce and assembling the burger with all the fixings. With our expert tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy a homemade falafel burger that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this ultimate falafel burger recipe.
Why make falafel burgers at home?
Making falafel burgers at home has numerous advantages. First and foremost, by preparing your own falafel burgers, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you use only the freshest and highest-quality components. This means you can choose organic chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices to create a healthier and more flavorful burger. Additionally, making falafel burgers at home allows you to customize the flavors and textures according to your preferences. Whether you prefer a spicier patty, a milder version, or want to experiment with different herbs and spices, the possibilities are endless. Lastly, making falafel burgers at home is a fun and rewarding culinary experience that allows you to impress your guests with your cooking skills and creativity.
The key ingredients for a perfect falafel burger
To create the perfect falafel burger, you need a few key ingredients that form the foundation of this Middle Eastern delight. The star ingredient is chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, which provide the base for the burger patty. These legumes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and an easy to find pantry staple, making them an excellent choice for a vegetarian burger. Other essential ingredients include fresh herbs such as parsley and cilantro, which add a burst of freshness and vibrant flavors. Spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic powder are also crucial for that authentic Middle Eastern taste. Finally, you’ll need some binding agents like flour or breadcrumbs to hold the patty together and achieve the perfect texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (organic) chickpeas, canned – drained and dried
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 shallot or ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, chopped
- 1 cup roughly chopped flat leaf parsley
- ½ cup roughly chopped cilantro
- ¼ tsp chipotle powder or cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, add more as needed
- 4 tbsp (organic) all purpose flour
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- Hamburger buns
- Sliced tomatoes- for the burger
- Sliced cucumber- for the burger
- Tzaziki sauce- for the burger (recipe below)
Tzaziki sauce ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (full fat, organic)
- 1 cucumber, roughly chopped
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (1 lemon)
- 1 Tbsp. dill (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt
- 1/2 tsp. Pepper
Combine ingredients with a stick or immersion blender and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
The garbanzo beans, herbs and spices will look form a rough paste in the food processor.
Step-by-step guide to making falafel patties
This simplified version of falafel burgers cuts out a time intensive step- soaking beans overnight. For this recipe, we are cutting out the traditional overnight bean soaking that other recipes use and using canned garbanzo beans that only need to be drained and dried on a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This process starts by first sauteeing shallots and garlic and adding them to a food process along with chickpeas, fresh herbs and spices. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste, being careful not to over-process it. Next, transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the sesame seeds, baking powder, flour and lightly beaten eggs and mix all the ingredients into a paste-like consistency. Refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up. After chilling, shape the mixture into patties using your hands or a large melon ball scoop. Remember to press firmly to ensure the patties hold their shape during cooking. Finally, you can either fry the patties until golden brown and crispy or bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.
Refrigerating the falafel mixture helps the patties hold their shape better.
Tips for frying or baking falafel burgers
When it comes to cooking falafel burgers, you have two main options: frying or baking. Frying the patties in oil results in a crispy exterior and a tender interior, giving you that classic falafel texture. To fry the patties, heat oil in a skillet until hot but not smoking, and carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook each side for a few minutes until golden brown, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
For pan frying, I used my Loco Flat Top Griddle to get the perfect crispy edges. I love cooking on my flattop griddle as an alternative to using my cast iron skillet. I was able to fry the falafel burgers and toast my buns all at the same time.
You can also cook these in the oven but you won’t get those crispy edges. It is your choice but my recommended way is to pan fry or use a flattop griddle like the Loco.
To bake your falafel burgers, Preheat your oven to 400, lightly grease a baking sheet, and place the patties on it. Bake the falafel burgers for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and heated through. Whichever method you choose, ensure that the patties are cooked all the way through and have a golden brown color.
I like cooking on my Loco Flattop griddle because it’s like cooking on a big cast iron skillet but with more space than a cast iron skillet.
Choosing the right buns and toppings
The choice of buns and toppings can elevate your falafel burger to a whole new level. Start with a soft and sturdy bun, such as a whole wheat or sesame seed bun, to hold the falafel patty and toppings without falling apart. I always opt for ORGANIC buns because all grain is sprayed with glyphosate as a desiccant so do your best to try to find bread that hasn’t been coated with these chemicals. I like Dave’s Killer Bread, which is readily available at most grocery stores. You can also opt for a pita bread or a lettuce wrap for a lighter and gluten-free alternative.
When it comes to toppings, the sky’s the limit. Traditional options include fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding pickles, olives, or sliced jalapenos. Don’t forget to slather the bun with a generous amount of homemade tzatziki sauce or tahini dressing to add creaminess and tanginess to the burger. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
Homemade sauces and spreads for falafel burgers
No falafel burger is complete without a delicious sauce or spread to complement the flavors of the patty and toppings. One classic option is tzatziki sauce, a refreshing yogurt-based condiment infused with garlic, cucumber, and dill. To make tzatziki sauce, simply combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill with an immersion or stick blender. Mix well and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Another popular choice is tahini dressing, made from sesame paste, lemon juice, garlic, and water. Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with water as needed. These homemade sauces not only add a burst of flavor but also provide a cooling element that balances the spices in the falafel patty.
Falafel burgers are delicious slathered with lots of homemade Tzatziki sauce.
Serving suggestions and side dishes
To complete your falafel burger experience, consider serving it with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, opt for a side of fresh salad greens or a quinoa salad tossed with chopped vegetables and a zesty dressing (you can use the Tzaziki dressing). You can also serve your falafel burger with a side of hummus and pita bread for a Middle Eastern feast. Variations and creative twists on the classic falafel burger
While the classic falafel burger is undeniably delicious, there are countless variations and creative twists you can explore to add your own personal touch. One option is to incorporate different vegetables into the patty mixture, such as grated zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes. This not only adds extra flavor and texture but also boosts the nutritional value of the burger. Another twist is to experiment with different spices and herbs to create unique flavor profiles. Consider adding smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a hint of cinnamon to give your falafel burger a distinctive taste. Additionally, you can play with the toppings and sauces by adding avocado slices, feta cheese, or a spicy harissa mayo. Let your imagination run wild and create a falafel burger that reflects your culinary creativity.
Let’s Make this Falafel Burger!
In conclusion, making the perfect falafel burger at home is a rewarding and enjoyable culinary adventure. By following this ultimate guide, you’ll be able to create a falafel burger that rivals the best restaurant versions. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of shaping and frying the perfect falafel patty, every step is crucial to achieving a mouthwatering result. Remember to experiment with different flavors, toppings, and sauces to find your personal favorite. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a flavorful alternative to meat-based burgers or simply want to explore the vibrant world of Middle Eastern cuisine, the falafel burger is delicious for meateaters, vegetarians and foodies! So roll up your sleeves, pull out your food processor, and make these delicious morsels for your next meal! I guarantee you will love the flavors of this Middle Easter Street Food on your menu!
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EAsy Falafel Burgers at Home
- Total Time: 58 minutes
- Yield: 8 falafel burger patties 1x
Description
Make falafel burgers at home with this simplified recipe that cuts down on prep time, but offers delicious, flavorful Middle Eastern Streetfood-esque results!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (organic) chickpeas, canned – drained and dried
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 shallot or ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, chopped
- 1 cup roughly chopped flat leaf parsley
- ½ cup roughly chopped cilantro
- ¼ tsp chipotle powder or cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, add more as needed
- 4 tbsp (organic) all purpose flour
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- Hamburger buns
- Sliced tomatoes- for the burger
- Sliced cucumber- for the burger
- Tzaziki sauce- for the burger (recipe below)
Tzaziki sauce ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (full fat, organic)
- 1 cucumber, roughly chopped
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (1 lemon)
- 1 Tbsp. dill (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt
- 1/2 tsp. Pepper
Combine ingredients with a stick or immersion blender and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Instructions
This simplified version of falafel burgers cuts out a time intensive step- soaking beans overnight. For this recipe, we are cutting out the traditional overnight bean soaking that other recipes use and using canned garbanzo beans that only need to be drained and dried on a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- This process starts by first sautéeing shallots and garlic and adding them to a food process along with chickpeas, fresh herbs and spices. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste, being careful not to over-process it.
- Next, transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the sesame seeds, baking powder, flour and lightly beaten eggs and mix all the ingredients into a paste-like consistency.
- Refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
- After chilling, shape the mixture into patties using your hands or a large melon ball scoop. Remember to press firmly to ensure the patties hold their shape during cooking.
- Finally, you can either fry the patties until golden brown and crispy or bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- refrigerate patties for 30 minutes:
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian Recipes, Veggie Burger
- Method: Pan Fry, Griddle, Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Easter
