Name: Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: Falafel:; 6 cups Vegetable Oil; 1 small shallot; ¼ cup fresh parsley leaf; 6 cloves garlic; 2 cans chickpeas; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1½ tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp kosher salt; 6 tbsp all purpose flour; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; Red Pepper Hummus:; 2 cans chickpeas; 1 cup red pepper; ¼ cup tahini; 1 clove garlic; 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ¼ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp water; Tzatziki:; 1 persian cucumber; 2 cups Greek yogurt; 1½ tsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 clove garlic; 3 tbsp fresh dill; 4 fresh mint leaves

This recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of the Middle East in the form of falafel and hummus. Made entirely in a blender, it simplifies traditional methods without compromising on taste, yielding crispy falafels and creamy hummus with a twist of roasted red pepper.

Photos of Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe

While most ingredients are pantry staples like garlic, chickpeas, and spices, one that might require a supermarket trip is tahini. This sesame seed paste is essential for authentic hummus. Additionally, Greek yogurt and fresh herbs like dill and mint are used in the Tzatziki sauce.

Blender-Made Falafel and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Ingredients

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the falafel, it provides a crispy exterior.

Shallot: Adds a delicate, slightly sweet flavor to the falafel.

Fresh parsley: Gives a fresh, herbaceous note to the falafel mix.

Garlic: Essential for both falafel and hummus, it adds a punch of flavor.

Chickpeas: The base for both falafel and hummus.

Ground cumin and coriander: Spice staples that lend a warm, earthy flavor.

Pepper and Salt: For seasoning.

All-purpose flour: Helps bind the falafel mixture together.

Olive oil: Used in both falafel and hummus for a smooth, rich finish.

Red pepper: Roasted and blended into the hummus for a sweet, smoky twist.

Tahini: This sesame paste adds richness and depth to the hummus.

Lemon juice: Adds a tangy freshness to the hummus and tzatziki.

Smoked paprika: Gives the hummus a subtle smoky flavor.

Cucumbers, Greek yogurt, Fresh dill and mint leaves: Key ingredients for the tzatziki sauce.

One reader, Erasmus Zarate says:

This blender-made falafel and hummus recipe is a game-changer! The falafel turned out crispy and flavorful, and the hummus was so creamy and delicious. The convenience of using a blender made the whole process a breeze. I'm definitely making this again!

Erasmus Zarate

Techniques Required for Making Falafel and Hummus

How to make falafel: A step-by-step guide on preparing the falafel mixture, shaping it into balls, and frying until golden brown.

How to make roasted red pepper hummus: Instructions on blending the chickpeas, roasted red peppers, and other ingredients to create a smooth and flavorful hummus.

How to make tzatziki sauce: A guide on blending the cucumber, yogurt, and herbs to create a creamy and refreshing tzatziki sauce.

How to serve falafel, hummus, and tzatziki: Suggestions on plating the falafel, hummus, and tzatziki alongside pitas, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a complete and delicious meal.

How To Make Falafel And Hummus In A Blender

Looking for an easy and tasty dish? Then this falafel and hummus in a blender make a tasty meal from the combination of chickpeas, red pepper, and herbs.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

For Falafel:

6cupsvegetable oil,for frying
1small shallot,halved
¼cupfresh parsley leaf,plus more for garnish
6clovesgarlic
2canschickpeas,drained and rinsed
1tspground cumin
1½tspground coriander
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
1tspkosher salt
6tbspall purpose flour
¼cupextra virgin olive oil

For Red Pepper Hummus:

2canschickpeas,drained and rinsed
1cuproasted red pepper,jarred
¼cuptahini,(60 g)
1clovegarlic
1tbspfresh lemon juice
1tbspextra virgin olive oil
¼tspsmoked paprika
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
1tspkosher salt
2tbspwater,as needed

For Tzatziki:

1persian cucumber,peeled
2cupsGreek yogurt
1½tspfresh lemon juice
1clovegarlic
3tbspfresh dill,plus more for topping
4fresh mint leaves

For Serving:

4pitas
¼cupred onion,thinly sliced
¼cupcherry tomato,halved
¼cupcucumber,sliced

Instructions

Falafel:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375 degrees F.
Add the shallot, parsley, and garlic to a blender and pulse until coarsely chopped.
Add the chickpeas, cumin, coriander, pepper, salt, flour, and olive oil and blend until combined, but still slightly chunky, 15 to 20 pulses, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and rinse out the blender.
Scoop the falafel mixture into 2-tablespoon portions and gently roll into balls, then flatten slightly. Place on the prepared baking sheet. This should make about 12 balls.
Working in batches, fry the falafel balls in the hot oil for 2 to 4 minutes, until dark golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain, then arrange on a serving platter, garnish with parsley, and set aside while you make the dips.

Red Pepper Hummus:

Add the chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, pepper, and salt to the blender. Purée until smooth, adding the water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Transfer to a serving bowl and rinse out the blender.

Tzatziki:

Add the cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dill, mint to the blender. Purée until mostly smooth, but still with some texture. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with more dill.
Serve the falafel, hummus, and tzatziki with pitas, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 4134.65kcal
Fat: 382.16g
Saturated Fat: 31.27g
Trans Fat: 2.58g
Monounsaturated Fat: 259.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 67.53g
Carbohydrates: 148.04g
Fiber: 34.32g
Sugar: 26.02g
Protein: 50.51g
Cholesterol: 19.15mg
Sodium: 2284.58mg
Calcium: 405.76mg
Potassium: 944.94mg
Iron: 9.28mg
Vitamin A: 82.09µg
Vitamin C: 71.62mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Falafel and Hummus

When making the falafel, it's crucial not to over blend the mixture in the blender. You want the mixture to be combined but still slightly chunky. This will give your falafel a better texture and prevent it from becoming too dense or pasty. If you're unsure, it's better to under blend than over blend. You can always give it a few more pulses if needed.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Falafel and Hummus

Prep ahead: Prepare the falafel mixture and dips the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use canned chickpeas: Opt for canned chickpeas instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and boiling process, saving significant time.

Blitz in bulk: Make a larger batch of falafel mixture and freeze the extra portions for future use. This way, you can save time on prep for your next falafel meal.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the falafel is frying, simultaneously prepare the hummus and tzatziki to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Pre-cut vegetables: Purchase pre-cut vegetables or consider prepping them in advance to minimize the time spent on chopping and slicing during meal preparation.

Invest in a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and efficiently blend the falafel and dip ingredients, reducing manual chopping and mixing time.

Substitute Ingredients For Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for vegetable oil in frying the falafel.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can provide a similar mild onion flavor to shallots and can be a suitable replacement in the falafel mixture.
fresh parsley leaf - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can add a similar herbaceous freshness to the falafel mixture as parsley.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing.
chickpeas - Substitute with canned white beans: Canned white beans can be used as a substitute for chickpeas, providing a similar texture and mild flavor in the falafel mixture.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Ground caraway seeds can provide a similar earthy and slightly nutty flavor to cumin in the falafel mixture.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground fennel seeds: Ground fennel seeds can offer a similar aromatic and slightly sweet flavor to coriander in the falafel mixture.
all purpose flour - Substitute with chickpea flour: Chickpea flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour in the falafel mixture.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in the falafel mixture.
red pepper - Substitute with roasted red bell pepper: Roasted red bell pepper can be used as a substitute for fresh red pepper to add a smoky and sweet flavor to the hummus.
tahini - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can provide a similar nutty flavor and creamy texture as tahini in the hummus.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can offer a tangy acidity similar to fresh lemon juice in the hummus.
persian cucumber - Substitute with English cucumber: English cucumber can be used as a substitute for Persian cucumber, providing a similar crisp texture and mild flavor in the tzatziki.
greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt in the tzatziki, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
pitas - Substitute with naan bread: Naan bread can be used as an alternative to pitas for serving with the falafel and hummus, providing a soft and slightly chewy base.
red onion - Substitute with sweet onion: Sweet onion can provide a milder and slightly sweet flavor as a substitute for red onion in the serving accompaniments.
cherry tomato - Substitute with grape tomato: Grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute for cherry tomatoes, providing a similar small size and sweet flavor for serving with the falafel and hummus.
cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be used as a substitute for cucumber in the serving accompaniments, providing a similar crisp texture and mild flavor.

Presentation Tips for Falafel and Hummus

Elevate the falafel: Mold the falafel mixture into perfectly shaped spheres using a ring mold for a polished and professional presentation.
Artful drizzling of red pepper hummus: Use a squeeze bottle to create elegant swirls of red pepper hummus on the plate, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Garnish with precision: Finely chop the red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber into uniform, delicate pieces to sprinkle over the falafel, adding a burst of color and freshness to the plate.
Pita placement: Warm the pitas and fold them into a neat triangle, then position them vertically on the plate to create a visually appealing and inviting presentation.
Tzatziki swirl: Use a small spoon to create a delicate swirl of tzatziki on the plate, adding a touch of elegance and a pop of flavor to the dish.
Balance and symmetry: Arrange the falafel, hummus, and tzatziki in a triangular formation on the plate, ensuring equal spacing and a visually pleasing display.
Herb garnish: Sprinkle fresh dill and mint leaves over the dish, adding a vibrant and aromatic element to the presentation.
Plate with finesse: Use a large, pristine white plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish, allowing the falafel and dips to take center stage.

Essential Tools for Making Falafel and Hummus in a Blender

Blender: A versatile kitchen tool that can be used to blend the falafel and hummus ingredients into a smooth and creamy consistency.
Large pot: Used for heating the vegetable oil to fry the falafel.
Baking sheet: Lined with parchment paper to place the formed falafel before frying.
Paper towels: Used to drain the fried falafel and remove excess oil.
Serving platter: Used to arrange and present the cooked falafel.
Food processor: Ideal for blending the ingredients for the roasted red pepper hummus and tzatziki sauce into a smooth and creamy texture.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine and mix the falafel ingredients before forming them into balls.
Serving bowls: Used to serve the roasted red pepper hummus and tzatziki sauce.
Blender: Used to blend the ingredients for the roasted red pepper hummus and tzatziki sauce into a smooth and creamy texture.
Knife: Used for chopping and preparing ingredients such as shallots, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Parchment paper: Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the falafel from sticking.
Plates: Used for serving the falafel, hummus, and tzatziki with pita bread and garnishes.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Falafel and Hummus

To store leftover falafel, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled falafel on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Store the red pepper hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the hummus thickens, stir in a little olive oil or water to restore its creamy consistency.
The tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the cucumber may release some liquid.
While it's best to enjoy the pita bread fresh, you can store leftover pita in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To refresh, wrap the pita in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

How To Reheat Leftover Falafel and Hummus

To reheat leftover falafel, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps to restore the crispy texture of the falafel without making them greasy.
Alternatively, you can reheat falafel in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the falafel in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the falafel are heated through and crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat falafel in the microwave. Place the falafel on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven or air fryer reheating.
When reheating hummus, transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the hummus from drying out. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the hummus is heated through.
If you prefer a cold hummus, simply remove it from the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. If the hummus has thickened during storage, you can add a small amount of olive oil, lemon juice, or water to help loosen it up and restore its creamy consistency.
To enhance the flavor of leftover hummus, consider adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Both reheated falafel and hummus can be served with fresh vegetables, such as cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, as well as warm pita bread for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Interesting Fact About Falafel and Hummus

The falafel and hummus recipe is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber. It is a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, providing essential nutrients and flavors. Additionally, falafel and hummus are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, such as in sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for vegetables. These dishes are also a great source of healthy fats, making them a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Is Making Falafel and Hummus at Home Cost-Effective?

This falafel and hummus recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chickpeas, vegetable oil, and spices, are affordable and versatile. The recipe offers a substantial yield, making it suitable for multiple servings. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9 out of 10 for its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious flavors.

Is This Falafel and Hummus Recipe Healthy?

The falafel and hummus recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates a variety of nutritious ingredients such as chickpeas, vegetables, and herbs. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of fresh parsley, garlic, and shallots adds flavor and provides additional nutrients. The tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt and cucumber, is a healthier alternative to high-fat dips.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Instead of deep-frying the falafel, consider baking them in the oven or using an air fryer to reduce the amount of oil used
Opt for whole wheat pitas instead of regular pitas to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as excessive sodium intake can be detrimental to health
Include more vegetables, such as lettuce or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the meal

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, you could:

Add more herbs and spices, such as turmeric or ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties
Incorporate other nutrient-dense vegetables, like spinach or kale, into the falafel mixture
Use a variety of colored vegetables, such as red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, to ensure a wide range of vitamins and minerals
Experiment with different types of beans or lentils in the falafel mixture to diversify the protein and fiber sources
Serve the falafel and dips with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Falafel and Hummus Recipe

The falafel and hummus recipe is a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern flavors. The falafel, with its crispy exterior and tender interior, pairs perfectly with the creamy roasted red pepper hummus and refreshing tzatziki. The use of a blender simplifies the preparation process, making it accessible for home cooks. The combination of fresh herbs and spices enhances the overall dish, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is a wonderful option for those seeking a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Enhance Your Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the flavorful falafel and hummus.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful and flavorful skewers of assorted vegetables, grilled to perfection and adding a healthy and vibrant element to the meal.

Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: A refreshing and tangy fruit salad with a zesty citrus dressing, providing a light and fruity contrast to the savory falafel and dips.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Falafel and Hummus

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a flavorful dish by stuffing bell peppers with a mixture of ground lamb, rice, tomatoes, and Mediterranean spices, then baking until tender.

Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, then grill to perfection for a light and refreshing main course.

Summer Berry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Toss together a vibrant salad with mixed berries, fresh greens, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and colorful side dish.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer butternut squash with onions, garlic, and warm spices, then blend until smooth for a velvety and comforting soup option.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Whip up a decadent dessert by blending ripe avocados with cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla for a rich and creamy chocolate mousse.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Falafel and Hummus

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring tender spinach and tangy artichokes. This classic appetizer is perfect for dipping with crunchy bread, chips, or fresh vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures will keep your guests coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with a gooey, molten center. The contrast between the warm, velvety interior and the slightly crisp exterior creates a truly luxurious dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy, luscious strawberry cheesecake that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh strawberries with the smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why trust this Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its authentic flavors and textures. The falafel is crafted with aromatic fresh parsley and garlic, ensuring a burst of savory goodness. The hummus features rich, smoky roasted red peppers and creamy tahini, delivering a luscious and satisfying dip. The tzatziki adds a refreshing touch with crisp cucumber and zesty lemon juice. Each element is carefully balanced, promising a harmonious fusion of Mediterranean delights. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Share your thoughts on the Falafel And Hummus In A Blender Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the conversation and let us know if you have any tips or variations to this delicious Middle Eastern dish!

FAQ:

Can I bake the falafel instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the falafel instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the falafel on the baking sheet and lightly brush them with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook the falafel, simply shape the mixture into balls and proceed with frying or baking.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned chickpeas for the falafel?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas instead of canned chickpeas for the falafel. Soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight, then drain and rinse them before using in the recipe. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How long will the hummus and tzatziki last in the refrigerator?

Both the hummus and tzatziki can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Just make sure to give them a good stir before serving, as they may separate slightly during storage.

Can I freeze the falafel?

Yes, you can freeze the falafel. After frying or baking, allow the falafel to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the falafel to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.