Lebanese Cuisine

Smash Falafel Pita Recipe – Lebanese Special

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Smash Falafel Pita Recipe – Lebanese Special

Experience the vibrant flavors of our Smash Falafel Pita, a tasty take on a Middle Eastern classic. This dish features crispy, golden falafel made from seasoned chickpeas, parsley, and cilantro, all nestled in warm pita bread. Each pita is generously packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables and topped with a creamy drizzle of tahini sauce or vegan yogurt. Combining savory, spicy, and tangy elements, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, the Smash Falafel Pita offers a delicious blend of tradition and modern flair.

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time30 min
  • Total Time50 min

For the Falafel Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or more as needed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

For the Smash Falafel Pita:

  • 4 pita bread or flatbreads
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup tahini sauce or vegan yogurt
  • Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Prepare the Falafel Mixture:

1

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.

2

Add cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Pulse a few more times.

3

Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in flour, adding more if necessary, until the mixture holds together when formed into balls.

Form and Cook the Falafel:

4

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

5

Shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties.

6

Fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Pita:

7

Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a dry skillet or oven.

8

Spread a layer of tahini sauce or vegan yogurt inside each pita.

9

Fill with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, cucumber, and red onion.

10

Smash 2-3 falafel balls or patties into each pita.

Serve:

11

Garnish with additional tahini sauce or vegan yogurt, if desired.

12

Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

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