Name: Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 12 h 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 h 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups dried chickpeas; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup broccoli florets; ¾ cup fresh coriander, chopped; ½ cup parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt (add more to taste); Pita bread; Hummus; 1 large tomato, chopped; ½ cucumber, chopped; Green or black olives; Sambal or hot sauce (optional); Lettuce leaves; Olive oil for drizzling; Optional: yoghurt sauce

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If you are craving a vibrant, crunchy, and utterly satisfying meal that bursts with Middle Eastern flavors, the Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful sandwich combines crispy homemade falafels with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus, all tucked lovingly inside soft pita bread. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for more every time. Whether you’re new to falafel or a longtime fan, this recipe makes the whole process approachable and fun, giving you a delicious sandwich that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A square white bowl filled with light brown, smooth chickpeas evenly spread inside. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a round wooden board partially visible in the upper right corner. The chickpeas show a soft texture with a slight shine. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this falafel pita sandwich. Each component plays an essential role, from the earthy chickpeas that form the crispy falafel base, to the fresh herbs and spices that bring vibrancy and depth, all the way to the crunchy vegetables and creamy spreads that complete every bite.

2 cups dried chickpeas: These are the star ingredient for authentic falafel with the perfect texture when soaked and ground.
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Adds a sharp, savory punch that complements the chickpeas beautifully.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Contributes subtle sweetness and moisture to the falafel mixture.
1 cup broccoli florets: An unexpected but brilliant addition for extra nutrition and a slight crunch.
¾ cups fresh coriander, chopped: Brings a fresh, citrusy note key to Middle Eastern flavors.
½ cup parsley, chopped: Adds brightness and a vibrant green color to the mix.
1 teaspoon coriander powder: Deepens the earthy flavor profile with warm spices.
1 teaspoon cumin powder: Gives a smoky undertone essential to traditional falafel seasoning.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the other spices.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors; adjust to your taste.
Pita bread: Soft and pillowy bread to hold all your falafel goodness.
Hummus: Creamy and rich, it’s the perfect spread to complement the crispy falafel.
1 large tomato: Fresh and juicy, adds moisture and sweetness.
½ cucumber: Crunchy and refreshing, balancing the warm falafel.
Green or black olives: Offer a salty, briny contrast.
Sambal or hot sauce (optional): For those who like a lively kick of heat.

How to Make Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

Begin your Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight. This step is absolutely crucial because it softens the chickpeas, making them easier to blend and ensuring your falafel holds together nicely without falling apart when fried. Don’t skip this! At least 12 hours is ideal, so plan ahead to get the best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Falafel Mixture

After soaking, rinse the chickpeas well and drain them thoroughly. Add the chickpeas to a food processor and pulse a few times—don’t overblend, as you want some texture. Next, add the finely chopped garlic, onion, broccoli florets, fresh coriander, parsley, and the fragrant spices: coriander powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Pulse until the ingredients form a cohesive but slightly coarse mixture. The falafel dough should hold together without being mushy; this balance creates the perfect texture when cooked.

Step 3: Shape Your Falafel Balls

Now for the fun part! Wet your hands lightly and form the falafel mixture into palm-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. You can also use a falafel press for uniform shapes. Keep them consistent so they cook evenly and maintain their crunch. This sizing makes for a substantial filling in the pita without overwhelming the other sandwich components.

Step 4: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat a small amount of neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat—just enough to shallow fry your falafel. Add the shaped balls and fry until golden brown and crispy on the outside, about 3-4 minutes per side. The exterior should be satisfyingly crunchy, while the inside remains moist and fresh. Remember not to overcrowd the pan to retain the heat and fry evenly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe

Slice your pita bread in half and gently open the pockets. Spread a generous layer of creamy hummus on the inside of each pita half. If you like a bit of spice, add sambal or your favorite hot sauce. Stuff the pita with chopped tomatoes and cucumber tossed lightly in olive oil for a fresh crunch. Add lettuce if you like, then pile in your warm, crispy falafels. Top everything with green or black olives for a salty contrast. Feel free to drizzle with yogurt sauce for extra creaminess.

How to Serve Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe

Three pita sandwiches sit on a white marbled surface, each filled with two round, brown falafel balls. Inside the pitas, there are layers of bright green lettuce, light tan creamy sauce drizzled over the falafel, thin red onion slices, pale green cucumber pieces, and thick red tomato slices at the bottom. The pitas are slightly toasted with a light beige color and soft texture. Next to the sandwiches are two more falafel balls, and the whole scene is on a round white plate with a piece of beige cloth underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe is what makes it pop visually and flavor-wise. Fresh herbs like extra parsley or coriander sprinkled on top add brightness. A sprinkling of sumac or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can elevate the sandwich with zingy notes that balance the richness.

Side Dishes

Serve your falafel pita alongside classic Middle Eastern sides like tabbouleh salad for freshness or a simple cucumber and yogurt raita to cool down the palate. Crunchy pickles and crispy sweet potato fries also make delightful complements, adding contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve mini falafel pita sliders at parties, using smaller pita pockets and garnishing with colorful veggies. You can also turn the falafel mixture into a salad bowl, adding falafel pieces on top of greens for a deconstructed take. Wrapping falafel in a flatbread roll with tahini drizzle is another delicious option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made more falafel than you can eat, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. Keep the pita bread and fresh veggies separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Falafel freezes wonderfully. Arrange the unfried shaped falafel balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to use, fry or bake directly from frozen for a crispy treat anytime. This method preserves flavor and texture beautifully.

Reheating

To reheat, the best method is to pop falafel in a hot oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soft and soggy. Reheat pita bread separately by wrapping it in foil and warming it gently in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Dried chickpeas are preferred because they provide the right texture after soaking, which canned chickpeas can’t quite replicate. Using canned chickpeas often results in a softer mixture that doesn’t hold together as well when frying.

Is it possible to bake the falafel instead of frying?

Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative. Place the falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

What is the purpose of adding broccoli to the falafel?

Broccoli adds extra fiber, nutrition, and a subtle crunch to the falafel mixture, making this recipe unique and more wholesome without overpowering the traditional flavors.

Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the falafel mixture and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Shape and fry the falafel fresh right before serving for the best texture.

What sauces other than hummus can I use in the sandwich?

You can experiment with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or a simple garlic yogurt sauce. Each adds a delicious twist that complements the falafel’s crispy texture and herbaceous flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this Falafel Pita Sandwich Recipe inspires you to bring a little Middle Eastern magic into your kitchen. It’s a recipe that feels comforting yet exciting and is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Making falafel from scratch is easier than you think and so rewarding when you bite into that perfect crispy, fresh sandwich. Go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!