Falafel seasoning is the key to transforming this staple Middle Eastern dish into a flavorful sensation. The magic behind great falafel lies in its seasoning. An elaborate mixture of spices and herbs turns simple poached chickpeas or fava beans into a mouth-watering treat.
We will then consider, in-depth, some recipes of falafel seasoning, some traditional and Lebanese spice mixes, and how to use them to elevate your homemade falafel.
What Is Falafel Seasoning?
This true flavor of falafel is provided by a mixture of aromatic spices mixed in the right ratio. These can be ground spices such as cumin and coriander, garlic and onion powder, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper to add more taste.
Other frequent spices used in the mix may include paprika, cayenne, or sumac to give your unique touch, though much variation has been found in recipes.
Falafel is that seasoning that just bursts all over, with that perfect balance of warmth, spice, and freshness.
Indeed, the seasoning can be changed according to personal taste, but for the authenticity of this taste, the main ingredients of this seasoning should be balanced.
For those who love Middle Eastern street foods or just want to bring those traditional flavors into their kitchen, mixing falafel seasoning is a must.
Read Also: What is Falafel Made of
A good seasoning mix is the heart of a good falafel. Most variations on recipes will retain at least several common spices to the traditional spice mixes for falafel.
Here’s the breakdown of the most important spices and their roles in making perfect falafel seasonings:
Cumin: The Earthy Foundation
Ground cumin is an essential component of the spice mixture in falafel. Its rich warmth and earthy undertones add depth and a hint of bitterness that gets along so well with chickpeas or fava beans. Ground cumin provides typical Middle Eastern fragrance to the falafel, and is often used generously in traditional recipes.
Coriander: Bright, citrusy punch
The other key spice in the falafel seasoning combination is coriander. This spice has a very bright, citrusy flavor that really does bring a pop of zing to what would otherwise be a pretty grounded taste. Ground coriander seeds introduce a light, flaky spice element with a rich contrast balance against the earthy base of ground cumin for a full-bodied flavor combination.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Meaty Richness
Of course, garlic and onion powders are essentials for falafel seasoning. They provide that umami richness in falafel that makes it so appetizing. A few recipes use fresh garlic and onion, but for convenience, these powdered forms are used in adding the dry mixture, and it’s even spread in the falafel.
Paprika: sweetness and color
Paprika gives the falafel seasoning a mild sweetness and makes it look very appetizing due to its bright gold color. Smoked paprika, instead of regular paprika, gives it a deeper, smokier taste, which goes well with the crispy, fried texture of falafel. It also provides a soft heat without overwhelming other spices.
Parsley and Cilantro: Fresh Herbs for Balance
Although not technically spices, fresh parsley and cilantro are both critical components of classic falafel seasoning. They add a freshness to the flavor and give it that characteristic green color that says, “Hey, I’m from the Middle East somewhere.” Finely chopped parsley and cilantro get mixed into the dough for the fava rather than into the dry spice blend, adding freshness in both moisture and taste against the fried exterior.
Salt and Black Pepper: Flavor Enhancers
Salt and black pepper are basic but key seasonings that bring out the flavor of the falafel. Salt amplifies the natural taste of the chickpeas and the spices, aside from adding an extra tenderness to the beans while they cook. Black pepper gives a slight kick and a touch of heat in the falafel.
Cayenne Pepper or Red Chili Flakes: For Those Who Love a Little Heat
Add some heat to the spice mix with cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. This is to taste and entirely optional-if you’re one of those who like your falafel so much spicier. A pinch is so much more: depth, subtlety of heat that lingers in the mouth.
For more information read: Turkish Spices | What They Are and How to Use
Traditional Falafel Seasoning Recipe
The truth is, making a classic falafel spice mix at home is effortless, and it allows you to taste your falafel just the way you want.
Here is a classic falafel spice mix recipe that epitomizes the authentic taste of Middle Eastern falafel with the following ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Instructions:
1- Whisk together cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using, in a small bowl.
2- Mix the spice mix well until combined.
3- This spice mix should be used to prepare the falafel mixture by adding 1-2 tablespoons for every cup of chickpeas or beans.
The result is a spice mixture that reflects, in almost equal measure, warmth, spice, and freshness typical of the traditional falafel. Vary the ratio according to your liking: add more cumin for earthiness or more garlic powder for a more robust savory flavor.
Lebanese Falafel Spice Mix: Regional Variation
Lebanese falafel has its spice mixture that distinguishes it from other regional falafels. One of the characteristic spices that go into Lebanese falafel seasoning is sumac, lending a characteristic tangy, lemony flavor.
Some recipes call for adding a hint of warm, sweet depth with some ground allspice.
Here is how to go about making one Lebanese falafel seasoning mix:
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons of cumin powder
- 2 teaspoons of coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1- Combine all of these spices into a bowl and mix well.
2- Store this spice mix in an airtight container for later use.
3- Once it’s time to make the falafel, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of this seasoning to the falafel mixture in order to give it that characteristical Lebanese taste.
Another factor lending a nice sourness to Lebanese falafel seasoning, which merges so well with earthy and savory notes from cumin and coriander, is sumac. Ground allspice adds depth to make it rich and complicated, distinctly Lebanese in flavor.
Read Also: Discover What is in Cajun Seasoning Mix With Historical Insights
Using Falafel Seasoning Mix in Recipes
Falafel Spice Mix is just a general mix that can be well employed in several ways, coming out with delectable homemade dishes of falafel.
Here is how the use of the spice mix makes your falafel as genuine and full of flavor as it should be:
In Homemade Falafel:
Add the falafel seasoning mix directly to the chickpea or fava bean mixture. The quantity of the spice mix one would use is a matter of personal preference; in general, it is advisable to add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spice mix for each cup of chickpeas so that it would be properly and evenly tasted.
In Canned Falafel seasoning:
Using the can mix, add more flavoring with 1 to 2 teaspoons of the falafel spice mix. You will taste the spices, and the canned falafel becomes more homemade and authentic.
Falafel Wraps and Salads
Sprinkle the falafel spice mix over your falafel wraps, salads, and grain bowls. That gives everything else linked to that all held together with a couple of other layers of flavor and tastes well-even satisfyingly so.
In Dips and Sauces:
Add falafel seasoning to yogurt or tahini sauces to serve along with your falafel. It pairs very nicely with the flavor of falafel but also adds an amazing umami flavor to the dip.
Tips for the Perfect Falafel Spice Recipe
For a great falafel seasoning spices, the work is far beyond mixing some spices. One has to pay attention to great details using good quality ingredients.
In this section, here are some tips to make the best falafel spice mix:
Taste and Adjust
Taste buds vary, so don’t be afraid to play with the level of spices in your falafel spice mix. Like your falafel a little spicier? Add in a bit more cayenne pepper. Want it fruitier? Add in a bit more coriander or sumac.
Use Fresh Spices
Fresh, new spices will make sure your dish tastes the best. Most ground spices lose their flavor after a while. If a date on a package is over a year old it is time to replace your spice. Freshly ground cumin and coriander seeds are brighter in flavor than pre-ground store versions.
Store Properly
Store your falafel spice mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for future use. These are the ways that will keep your seasoning mix fresh and full of flavor for the next use.
Zesty Hut’s Expert-Crafted Falafel Seasoning
Looking to make the perfect falafel at home? ZestyHut’s Falafel Spice is your secret ingredient! Crafted by ZestyHut’s culinary experts, this seasoning blend captures the authentic Middle Eastern flavors you crave.
Our recipe combines a unique mix of aromatic spices and herbs, perfectly balanced to give your falafel that crispy texture and rich, mouth-watering taste.
Skip the guesswork and let ZestyHut’s expert-crafted seasoning transform your homemade falafel into a restaurant-quality dish.
You can have a look at: What’s All Purpose Seasoning? Discover Its Uses and Benefits
Conclusion
Falafel seasoning is the heart of this Middle Eastern dish. It turns a simple chickpea or fava bean into crispy, flavorful falafel balls that tantalize the taste buds.
Knowing how to make falafel seasoning, whether it be the old mix or trying Lebanese variations with sumac and allspice, is the secret to having an authentic taste in your home.
With the right spices, adjusting the mix according to your taste, and fresh ingredients, you get only the perfect combination for the elevation of falafel. So, gather your spices, experiment with different blends, and bring the vibrant flavors of the Middle East into your kitchen.
FAQS
Does falafel contain onion and garlic?
Yes, traditional falafel recipes often include both onion and garlic. These ingredients add depth and richness to the flavor profile of the falafel. Typically, fresh garlic cloves and chopped onions are blended with chickpeas or fava beans to enhance the overall taste and aroma.
Why do you need baking powder in falafel?
Baking powder is used in falafel to make them light and fluffy. It acts as a leavening agent, helping the falafel to rise slightly during frying. This results in a crispy exterior with a tender, airy interior. Without baking powder, the falafel might become too dense or heavy.
What is Middle Eastern falafel made of?
Middle Eastern falafel is primarily made of chickpeas (or sometimes fava beans), blended with a mix of herbs such as parsley and cilantro, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. The mixture is then formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried to achieve a crispy texture. Some variations may include onions, flour, or baking powder for binding and texture.
What is the primary ingredient in falafel?
The primary ingredient in falafel is chickpeas. In some regional variations, fava beans are used either alone or mixed with chickpeas. These legumes form the base of the falafel mixture, providing its structure and unique flavor.
What are the 2 types of falafel?
The two main types of falafel are chickpea-based falafel and fava bean-based falafel. Chickpea falafel is more common in the Levant region, while fava bean falafel is traditional in Egypt, where it is known as “ta’amiya.” Some recipes combine both chickpeas and fava beans for a unique flavor and texture.
