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Crispy Falafel Pita Pockets

Dive into the delightful world of Crunchy Delight Falafel Pita Pockets! This recipe brings the authentic flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen. With crispy golden-brown falafels made from carefully soaked chickpeas and fresh herbs, all nestled in soft pita bread, every bite is a tasty journey. Pair them with fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any gathering, this dish is sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

For the Falafel:

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1/2 tsp baking powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Pita Pockets:

4 pita breads

1 cup shredded lettuce

1 tomato, diced

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Falafel Mixture:

    - Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms, scraping down the sides as needed. Do not over-process; the mixture should have texture.

      Shape the Falafel:

        - Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form small patties or balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. You should have around 12-14 falafels.

          Fry the Falafel:

            - Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot (about 350°F/175°C), carefully add the falafel in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides (approximately 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

              Prepare the Pita Pockets:

                - While the falafel is frying, warm the pita breads in a toaster or on a dry skillet for about 30 seconds until soft.

                  Assemble the Pita Pockets:

                    - Cut each pita in half to create a pocket. Stuff each pocket with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Add 3-4 pieces of crispy falafel to each pocket.

                      Add the Finishing Touches:

                        - Drizzle tahini sauce generously over the falafel inside the pita pockets. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

                          Serve and Enjoy:

                            - Serve your crispy falafel pita pockets warm with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or salad. Enjoy!

                              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4