Falafel with Fava Beans

Falafel balls
PhotoStock-Israel/Flickr
  • 15 mins
  • Prep: 10 mins,
  • Cook: 5 mins
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Ratings (22)

By Saad Fayed

Updated 09/12/17

Falafel is more commonly prepared with chickpeas, however, this falafel recipe is made with a combination of fava beans and chickpeas. Making falafel with fava beans is actually common in some Middle Eastern countries, and this recipe combines the two variations. 

What You'll Need

  • 1 cup dried fava beans (peeled)
  • 1/2 cup dried chickpeas (peeled)
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ​parsley (stems removed and finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • oil for frying

How to Make It

  1. Soak beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse. Preheat oil to 350 degrees. 2 inches of oil in a frying pan will suffice. I prefer to use vegetable or canola oil, but olive oil can be used also.
  2. Place beans in food processor and blend. Add remaining ingredients to form a thick paste-like consistency. If too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency.
  3. Remove falafel mixture from processor. Spoon falafel into hot oil by the tablespoon. Fry for about 2 minutes or until falafel is a golden brown color. Serve falafel by itself, or with hot pita bread with veggies, hummus, or tahini sauce.