20 Traditional Turkish Falafel Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 10, 2024
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Falafel is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine, made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It is a delicious and nutritious option for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. While there are many variations of falafel, the traditional Turkish recipe stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. In this article, we will take a closer look at this beloved dish and learn how to make it at home. So, put on your apron and get ready to discover the secrets of a traditional Turkish falafel recipe.
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Baked Falafel
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Dried Chickpeas, Red Onion, Fresh Parsley
Baked Falafel is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried falafel. Made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices, this baked version is just as flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it's easier to make and requires less oil, making it a guilt-free option for anyone craving falafel.
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Baked Falafel Patties with Yogurt-Tahini Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Onion, Chopped Parsley, Chopped Cilantro
These Baked Falafel Patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a perfect balance of flavors from the spices and herbs. Serve them with a creamy and tangy Yogurt-Tahini Sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Falafel
Main Ingredients: Dried Chickpeas, Water, White Onion, Fresh Cilantro
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern street food made with ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. These crispy and flavorful patties are typically served in a pita with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini sauce. They are also great as a protein-packed snack or appetizer.
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Easy Falafel
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Garlic, Lemon, Cumin, All Purpose Flour
If you're looking for a quick and easy falafel recipe, this one is for you. Made with canned chickpeas and a handful of pantry staples, this Easy Falafel comes together in no time. Plus, it's just as delicious as the traditional version.
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Cherry Turkish Taffy
Main Ingredients: Egg White, Sugar, Water, Cornstarch, Cherry Jam, Butter
This Cherry Turkish Taffy is a fun and unique twist on the classic taffy candy. Made with dried cherries, honey, and a touch of lemon juice, this delicious treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate some fruit into your diet.
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Greek Yogurt Turkish Flatbread (Bazlama)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Dried Yeast, Sugar, Greek Style Yogurt
This Greek Yogurt Turkish Flatbread, also known as Bazlama, is a soft and fluffy flatbread, perfect for serving with a variety of dishes. The addition of Greek yogurt gives it a subtle tanginess and makes it even more delicious and nutritious.
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Menemen (Turkish Egg Scramble)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Large Green Bell Pepper, Diced
Menemen is a traditional Turkish dish made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, and peppers. It's a hearty and flavorful breakfast option that is popular all over the country. Serve it with a side of Turkish bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crispy Baked Falafel
Main Ingredients: Dried Chickpeas, Red Onion, Fresh Parsley, Garlic
These Crispy Baked Falafel are a healthier version of the classic fried falafel. They are made with a combination of chickpeas and fava beans, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. Serve them with a side of hummus and pita bread for a complete meal.
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Falafel Sauce (Taratoor)
Main Ingredients: Lemon, Tahini, Salt, Water
This Falafel Sauce, also known as Taratoor, is a creamy and tangy sauce that is typically served with falafel. Made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a few other ingredients, it's the perfect accompaniment to any falafel dish.
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Turkish Cacik
Main Ingredients: Plain Yogurt, Cucumbers, Chopped Walnuts, Fresh Dill
Turkish Cacik is a refreshing and delicious yogurt-based dip, perfect for serving with grilled meats or as a spread for sandwiches. Made with cucumbers, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dip is bursting with flavor and makes a great addition to any meal.
Turkish Gozleme is a popular street food that is similar to a quesadilla. It's made with thin layers of dough filled with a variety of fillings, such as minced lamb, cheese, and vegetables. It's then cooked on a griddle until crispy and golden brown.
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FALAFEL
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Cilantro Leaves
Falafel is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. You can serve it in a pita with fresh veggies and sauce, on top of a salad, or even in a lettuce wrap. You can also mix it into rice or quinoa for a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
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Turkish Bread
Main Ingredients: Instant Yeast, Caster Sugar, Warm Water, All Purpose
Turkish Bread, also known as Pide, is a soft and chewy bread that is often served with meals or used as a base for sandwiches and wraps. It's typically topped with sesame seeds and nigella seeds, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.
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Turkish Kunefe (Künefe)
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Shredded Phyllo Dough, Cheese, Butter
Turkish Kunefe, also known as Künefe, is a popular dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and syrup. It's a decadent and indulgent treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
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Easy Homemade Falafel
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Lemon Juice, Garlic Cloves, Onion, Chopped
This Easy Homemade Falafel is a quick and simple recipe that yields delicious and flavorful falafel. It's made with a combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, and can be easily customized to your liking. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sauces for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Turkish Eggs, also known as Çılbır, is a popular breakfast dish made with poached eggs, yogurt, and chili butter. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for starting your day off on the right foot.
Turkish Potatoes & Chickpeas is a hearty and comforting dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's made with tender potatoes, chickpeas, and a variety of spices, making it a perfect vegetarian option for any meal.
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Turkish Lentil Balls (Mercimek Köfte)
Main Ingredients: Red Lentils, Water, Bulgur, Olive Oil, Pepper, Salt
Turkish Lentil Balls, also known as Mercimek Köfte, are a popular vegetarian appetizer or snack. Made with lentils, bulgur, and a variety of herbs and spices, these tasty balls are full of flavor and protein.
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Turkish Flat Bread (Bazlama)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Dried Yeast, Sugar, Greek Style Yogurt
This Turkish Flat Bread, also known as Bazlama, is a soft and chewy flatbread that is perfect for serving with a variety of dishes. It's easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal.
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Falafel Lettuce Wraps
Main Ingredients: Fresh Cilantro, Tahini, Water, Fresh Lemon Juice
For a lighter and healthier option, try these Falafel Lettuce Wraps. They are made with crispy and flavorful falafel balls, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a crisp lettuce leaf. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
The Origins of Turkish Falafel
The Perfect Blend of Influences
Traditional Turkish falafel is believed to have originated in the southeastern city of Gaziantep, also known as the culinary capital of Turkey. Its close proximity to the Middle East has heavily influenced the flavors and ingredients used in Turkish cuisine, including falafel. However, the dish has also been adapted to suit the Turkish palate, resulting in a unique and delicious variation.
The Secret Ingredient
One of the main differences between Turkish falafel and other variations is the use of a special ingredient - bulgur wheat. This grain is commonly used in Turkish cuisine and adds a unique texture and flavor to the falafel. It also serves as a binding agent, making the falafel mixture easier to work with.
The Traditional Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup dried chickpeas
1/2 cup bulgur wheat
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Instructions:
Soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain and rinse before using.
In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas, bulgur wheat, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be coarse, not a smooth paste.
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep pot over medium heat.
Form the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 inch in diameter.
Carefully drop the falafel into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings and sauces, such as tahini, tzatziki, or hummus.
A Dish for Any Occasion
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Turkish falafel can be enjoyed in many different ways. Some like to stuff it into a pita with fresh vegetables and sauces, while others prefer it as a main dish with a side of rice and vegetables. You can also get creative with the spices and herbs used in the recipe, adding your own twist to this classic dish. And for a healthier option, you can bake the falafel instead of frying it.
A Crowd-Pleaser
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, one thing is for sure - Turkish falafel is a crowd-pleaser. It's perfect for a quick and easy lunch, a party appetizer, or even a weeknight dinner. Plus, it's packed with protein and nutrients, making it a delicious and healthy option for any occasion.
Now that you have discovered the secrets of making a traditional Turkish falafel, it's time to gather your ingredients and give it a try. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. So, get cooking and enjoy this delicious dish straight from the heart of Turkish cuisine.
