What is Falafel?

If you’ve ever walked through the bustling streets of Jerusalem’s Old City, you know the unmistakable aroma of falafel frying in olive oil, tucked into warm pita bread, and garnished with fresh herbs, pickles, and tahini. Today, we’re sharing an authentic Palestinian Falafel recipe passed down through generations — straight from our family shop, Sea of Herbs, where we’ve been blending world-class spices and herbal remedies for over 200 years.

This isn’t just any falafel recipe. It’s the authentic Middle Eastern falafel made the traditional Palestinian way, using our world-famous Falafel Spice Mix, carefully crafted in our historic shop in Jerusalem.

Whether you’re trying falafel for the first time or looking to recreate the flavor of your favorite street food at home, this is the recipe you’ve been searching for.

Falafel is a crispy, golden-brown fritter made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, blended with herbs, spices, and aromatics. Deep-fried to perfection, falafel is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and loved worldwide for its rich flavor and satisfying crunch.

In Palestine, falafel is more than just food — it’s part of our cultural identity. Whether eaten in a sandwich or served on a plate with salad, hummus, and tahini, it’s a beloved dish that’s full of history and heart.

Why Use Our Falafel Spice Mix?

At Sea of Herbs, we simplify the art of the perfect authentic Falafel with our all-in-one Falafel Spice Mix. Unlike other recipes that call for a long list of spices, our mix includes everything you need — pre-measured and blended to perfection. This allows you to focus on the process and enjoy the rich, bold flavors that make authentic falafel unforgettable.

• No need for additional spices
• Traditional Palestinian flavor
• Easy to use: 1 tablespoon per ½ kilo of chickpeas

You can order our falafel spice blend online or send us a DM to order directly, as some of our specialty items may not be listed on the website.

Shop our world-famous spices at www.seaofherbs.com

Authentic Palestinian Falafel Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g (½ kg) dried chickpeas (do not use canned!)

• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped

• 5 cloves garlic

• 1 cup fresh parsley, packed

• ½ cup fresh cilantro

• 1 tbsp Sea of Herbs Falafel Spice Mix

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for extra crunch)

• Salt to taste

• Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil recommended)

 

Instructions:

1. Soak the Chickpeas

Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 12 hours. They will expand in size — this step is essential for the texture of real falafel.

2. Drain and Prep

After soaking, drain the chickpeas thoroughly. Do not cook them — raw, soaked chickpeas are what give falafel its unique texture and nutty flavor.

3. Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and Sea of Herbs Falafel Mix. Pulse until you have a coarse mixture — it should resemble wet sand and hold together when squeezed.

4. Add Baking Powder & Rest

Add the baking powder and sesame seeds (if using), and stir the mixture well. Let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.

5. Shape into Balls or Patties

Using damp hands or a falafel scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water; if too wet, add a bit of flour.

6. Fry Until Golden

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pan. Fry falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp — about 3–4 minutes per side.

7. Serve & Enjoy!

Drain on paper towels and serve hot in pita bread with tahini, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled turnips, and fresh herbs — or plate it with hummus and salad for a full falafel meal.

Tips for Perfect Falafel

• Always use dried chickpeas — canned ones are too soft
• Chill your falafel mixture before frying to prevent it from falling apart
• Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you love heat
• Use high-quality oil for frying to preserve flavor and health benefits

How to Serve Falafel – Middle Eastern Style

In Palestinian homes, falafel is often part of a larger mezze table — served alongside hummus, labneh, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, pickles, and fresh bread. Here are some favorite ways to enjoy it:

🥙 Falafel Sandwich: Wrapped in warm pita with tahini, pickles, and veggies
🍽️ Falafel Platter: Served with hummus, salad, and grilled eggplant
🥗 Falafel Salad Bowl: On top of greens with a lemon-tahini dressing
🍳 Falafel Breakfast: Yes, some enjoy it with eggs and tea in the morning!

Why Sea of Herbs?

For over two centuries, our family has curated the finest Middle Eastern spices and herbal remedies in the heart of Jerusalem. Our falafel mix is made from premium spices — ground and blended by hand — preserving the heritage and healing wisdom of Palestinian cuisine.

When you cook with our spices, you’re tasting 200 years of flavor, tradition, and care.

🛒 Shop the Falafel Mix: www.seaofherbs.com
📩 DM us to order specialty products not listed online

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Conclusion

Falafel is more than a popular dish — it’s a symbol of our culture, our hospitality, and our love for real, honest food. By using our Falafel Spice Mix, you’re not only making the perfect falafel, but you’re also preserving a story that began hundreds of years ago in the heart of Jerusalem.

Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and taste the difference that authentic spices make.

Your kitchen is your passport — let’s bring the Middle East to your table.