I recently discovered the joy of making falafel burgers, a delicious twist on the traditional Middle Eastern favorite. This burger combines chickpeas, herbs, spices, and a few other simple ingredients for a satisfying, flavorful, and nutritious meal.
To whip up these tasty burgers, you’ll need chickpeas, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, flour, and salt. The blend of these ingredients creates a hearty patty that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings and sauces.
If you want to try something new for your next meal, this might become your new favorite. Join me as I explore how to make them and share some delicious serving suggestions!
What Is a Falafel Burger?
A falafel burger is a fun twist on the traditional burger. Instead of a meat patty, it features a spiced chickpea patty, which is both flavorful and hearty.
The base ingredients typically include:
- Chickpeas: The main ingredient, providing protein and fiber.
- Herbs and Spices: Commonly parsley, cumin, and coriander for that authentic taste.
- Binders: Often flour or breadcrumbs to help the patty hold together.
I love the versatility of these burgers. You can dress them up in many ways! Some popular toppings include:
- Tahini Sauce: Creamy and nutty.
- Vegetables: Lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumbers add freshness.
- Pickles: For a tangy crunch.
They can be served in various styles. I enjoy mine on a toasted bun, but they also work well in pita bread or even as a salad topping.
They are popular among vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption. They provide a satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Making it at home is relatively simple. Most recipes involve mixing the ingredients, forming patties, and frying or baking them until crispy.
If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat!
Ingredients
- ½ cup of coarsely chopped onion
- 3 crushed cloves of garlic
- 1 medium seeded jalapeño pepper, coarsely chopped
- ¾ cup of fresh parsley leaves and/or cilantro
- 1 (15 oz.) can of no-salt-added chickpeas, rinsed
- 2 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of ground coriander
- ¼ tsp of baking soda
- ¼ tsp of salt
- ⅓ cup of dry whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 whole-wheat buns, split and toasted
How to Make a Falafel Burger?
- Finely process onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro. Blend in chickpeas, cumin, coriander, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- Toss in breadcrumbs, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to absorb moisture.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (approximately 190°C). Form four 3-inch patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties until golden and crispy, about 4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for approximately 15 minutes until heated through and puffed.
- Serve the falafel patties on buns.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 267 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Buns and Toppings for the Perfect Burger
Best Buns for Falafel Burgers
I prefer buns that complement the crispy texture of the falafel. Here are some favorites:
- Pita Bread: A classic choice, it’s soft and has a pocket that holds all fillings well.
- Whole Wheat Buns: Nutty flavor and added nutrition make these a healthy option.
- Gluten-Free Buns: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, nowadays, many options are available.
When selecting buns, consider toasting them slightly for a nice crunch. It adds an appealing texture contrast to the falafel patty.
Classic Toppings
Classic toppings can brighten up the flavors. Here are my go-to choices:
- Lettuce: Crisp romaine or green leaf adds a refreshing crunch.
- Tomato: Fresh slices of tomato provide juiciness.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced or diced, it adds a cooling effect.
- Onion: Red onion slices deliver a bite that balances the dish.
- Pickles: A tangy addition that balances the flavors.
I also enjoy a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added brightness.
Creative Sauce Ideas
Sauces can make or break your falafel burger. Here are a few creative ideas I love:
- Tahini Sauce: Creamy and nutty, tahini pairs perfectly with falafel.
- Harissa Aioli: Adds a spicy kick that energizes the flavors.
- Yogurt Sauce: A tangy yogurt sauce with garlic and lemon zest provides a refreshing touch.
Side Dishes Ideas
I also love to serve it with tasty sides. Here are a couple of my go-tos:
- Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and crispy complement.
- Tabbouleh Salad: Fresh and refreshing, it adds a nice contrast.
Feel free to mix and match these servings to create your perfect burger plate!
Storing and Reheating
Proper storage helps maintain their flavor and texture. Once cooked, I let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
For short-term storage, they can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I want to keep them longer, I freeze them. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Here’s how to store them:
- In the fridge: Use an airtight container.
- In the freezer: Wrap each burger in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. I prefer the oven for the best results. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the burgers on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
Alternatively, I sometimes use a microwave for convenience:
- Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat for 30-60 seconds.
Reheating in a skillet adds a nice crispiness. Just a couple of minutes on each side works wonders. Enjoying it later is just as satisfying as the first bite!
Conclusion
I find the falafel burger to be an exciting and tasty alternative to traditional meat burgers. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed by many, including vegetarians and vegans.
I like how easy it is to customize this burger to fit personal tastes. You can add ingredients like avocados or spicy sauces for extra flair.
Making it at home is simple and fun. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a healthy meal in no time.
One more thing, another great pairing is rice with vermicelli.
Interested? Get that recipe now (by clicking the image below)
