Vegan Falafel Salad

I have to admit that these falafels were a bit challenging. It took forever to get the flavor I wanted. I just couldn't get it right! Finally, they tasted great and I'm pretty sure the one ingredient that made the difference was the Garam Masala. This is a mixture of coriander, black pepper, cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon. I also added cayenne pepper and loved the little kick it added.

I ate out recently and had a salad with the falafels on top served with hummus as dressing and it was perfectly delicious. This is my take on the salad. In the picture, you can see I thinned out the hummus a bit but I don't suggest you do this it was better just dipping my falafels and lettuce right into the hummus. Perfect! Use your favorite hummus recipe for the best option but if you're in a crunch for time just go buy some.

I also was challenged by the fact that I don't have a food processor or I should say its not here with me in NC. So I did a lot of chopping, mashing, and mixing. It's best if you use a food processor!

What you will need

2 15 oz Cans of chickpeas drained, rinsed, and dried.

1/4 Cup of chopped parsley

1/4 Cup of chopped cilantro

1/2 Cup of chopped onion, yellow or white

6 Cloves of garlic minced

1 1/2 Tbsp of gluten-free flour

1 1/2 Tsp of sea salt

2 Tbsp of cumin

1 Tbsp of garam masala

1/8 Tsp cayenne pepper

Avocado oil for pan frying

What you need to do

Put all ingredients in the food processor except the chickpeas and the oil. Pulse until the mixture still a little chunky and start adding the chickpeas and pulse on and off while adding the chickpeas a little at a time until you get a fine meal with small chunks. 

Heat the oil in a skillet at medium heat. Form 1 1/2 inch patties and place in the preheated pan. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes each side until golden brown. Place on a towel to get rid of any excess oil.

Side note: I tried baking these and they were just too dry for me. You could try brushing with a little oil but I suppose that defeats the purpose if you're trying to avoid oil.

To create the salad. Use your favorite greens and salad fare! I used tomatoes, olives, and greens. I might have used red cabbage. I wanted to add cukes but had none in the fridge. Be creative and use the veggies you enjoy. Place a few of those beautiful toasty falafels on top, add a side of your favorite hummus and your all set. Enjoy!

Don't want a salad? Put it in a wrap! All the same stuff, add some hummus and roll and eat!

Xo, T

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