Shawarma Falafel Pittas Recipe

Finished falafel pittas from recipe

Falafels with a Shawarma Twist

Looking for a delicious falafel recipe with a unique flavour? This guide will show you how to create falafels with a tasty Shawarma twist. These crispy chickpea bites are a Middle Eastern classic, enhanced with our Shawarma seasoning. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetiser, this recipe is perfect. You can fry them for a crunchy bite or opt for air frying for a healthier option.

Serve them in warm pita bread with pickled red onions and garlic yoghurt for an unforgettable meal!

How to Make Falafel: Ingredients You’ll Need

For this easy falafel recipe, gather these ingredients:

  • 1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight)
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh coriander, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1 tablespoon Shawarma seasoning
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)
Ingredients for making falafel

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Falafel

1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture

To start, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, tahini, and Shawarma seasoning in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture comes together but retains some texture. You don't want it too smooth—there should be a bit of graininess for the perfect consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour to help bind it.

Making falafel mixture in a food processor

2. Shape and Chill Your Falafel

Once the mixture is ready, shape it into small balls using your hands. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. To help them hold their shape during frying, chill the falafel balls in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This step makes a big difference, as it firms up the mixture and prevents falling apart during cooking.

Forming falafel balls

3. Fry or Air Fry the Falafel

When you're ready to cook, heat about 2 inches of vegetable or sunflower oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the falafel balls into the hot oil, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.

For a healthier option, you can air fry or bake them. If air frying, lightly spray the falafel with oil to achieve that crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions for Your Falafel Recipe

Now that you've mastered the art of making falafels, serve them warm in pita bread. Add a generous dollop of garlic yoghurt, pickled red onions, and fresh cucumber slices for a burst of flavour. The tanginess of the pickled onions, the creaminess of the garlic yoghurt, and the crispiness of the falafel create a delicious combination that will satisfy any craving.

Falafel served in pita bread

Why You Should Try This Falafel Recipe at Home

Making falafels at home is incredibly rewarding and allows you to customise the flavours to suit your taste. This Shawarma twist on the classic recipe adds an extra layer of complexity and excitement to the dish. Whether you're serving it as a snack, a main course, or as part of a mezze platter, these falafels are guaranteed to impress.

Try this falafel recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine right from your kitchen!

Learn more about Shawarma and other Middle Eastern spices to experiment with in your kitchen!