Israeli-style Falafel Burger

Ingredients

The Israeli-style falafel burger differs from the original American slugburger in several ways. Firstly, instead of using a beef patty, this recipe replaces it with a falafel patty made from ground chickpeas. Secondly, the burger is served in a pita bread instead of a regular bun. Lastly, the toppings and condiments are inspired by Israeli cuisine, including tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and pickles. We alse have the original recipe for Slugburger, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 cups (400g) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying
• 4 pita breads 4 pita breads
• Tahini sauce Tahini sauce
• Lettuce leaves Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers Sliced cucumbers
• Pickles Pickles

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, flour, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined but still slightly chunky.
2. 2.
   Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. 3.
   Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the patties until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. 5.
   Warm the pita breads in a toaster or oven.
6. 6.
   Spread tahini sauce on one side of each pita bread.
7. 7.
   Place a falafel patty on top of the tahini sauce.
8. 8.
   Add lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and pickles.
9. 9.
   Fold the pita bread in half and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpeas — Make sure to drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove any excess liquid and improve the texture of the falafel patty.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the falafel mixture.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the falafel patties in the oven instead of frying them.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced onions, shredded cabbage, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.
• Serve the falafel burger with a side of crispy French fries or a refreshing Israeli salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover falafel patties can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day in a salad or as a filling for a wrap.

Serving advice

Serve the Israeli-style falafel burger immediately after assembling to ensure the pita bread stays soft and the falafel patty remains crispy. Accompany it with a side of tahini sauce for dipping or drizzling.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can garnish the falafel burger with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro. Serve it on a wooden board or a colorful plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables.