| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 20g | 3g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 12g | 15g | 1.2g |
Why I Love Saudi Arabian Falafel Wrap with Lemon Tahini Sauce
There’s something truly divine about the combination of flavors and textures in a well-made Falafel Wrap with Lemon Tahini Sauce. The first time I tasted falafel, it was like a revelation — crispy on the outside, yet tender and aromatic on the inside. Growing up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, my palette was used to hearty, robust flavors. Still, the subtle and fragrant spices of falafel brought a refreshing nuance that felt both exotic and comforting.
The Magic of Falafel
What makes the Falafel Wrap with Lemon Tahini Sauce so special is its balance of spices and fresh ingredients. The earthy cumin and coriander blend effortlessly with the fresh parsley and cilantro, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Plus, when paired with the zesty Lemon Tahini Sauce, it’s a combination that is nothing short of magical.
This particular recipe is inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Saudi Arabia, where falafel is a beloved staple. I remember stumbling upon this divine combination on a trip to the Middle East with my partner Gordon. We were both immediately hooked — not only by the taste but by the communal, finger-food nature of the dish, perfect for sharing and savoring together.
A Versatile Companion
Incorporating this dish into your culinary repertoire couldn’t be easier. It complements a variety of other dishes like a crisp fattoush salad or a hearty tabbouleh. Besides, if you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, serve it alongside a warm bowl of lentil soup. For those who love combining different cuisines, this falafel wrap pairs beautifully with a Greek tzatziki or even a Moroccan-style carrot salad.
If you’re looking for a fresh take on the falafel wrap, I encourage you to check out the work of Chef Anissa Helou. Her approach to Middle Eastern cuisine is both authentic and innovative, providing ample inspiration for home cooks looking to explore new flavors.
Diversifying to dishes like this has brought a breath of fresh air into my mountain-kitchen routine. It’s a fusion of cultures, a mix of the familiar and the new, all coming together in one delightful wrap. Whether you’re enjoying it by the campfire or at your dining table, the Falafel Wrap with Lemon Tahini Sauce is bound to become a favorite in your household too.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups dried chickpeas
- 1/2 large onion, roughly chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 cloves garlic
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 6 large pita or flatbreads
- 2 cups lettuce, shredded
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup pickled turnips
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt to taste
Lemon Tahini Sauce
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Method
Step One
Rinse and soak the dried chickpeas in cold water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse them well.
Step Two
In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, parsley, cilantro, salt, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cayenne pepper, baking powder, baking soda, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely ground and holds together when formed into a ball.
Step Three
Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Step Four
While the falafel mixture is chilling, prepare the Lemon Tahini Sauce. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt until smooth. Adjust water to reach your desired consistency.
Step Five
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Form the falafel mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls or patties, and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Step Six
Warm the pita or flatbreads in a skillet or oven. To assemble the wraps, layer each with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, pickled turnips, and fresh mint leaves. Add a few falafel balls and drizzle with Lemon Tahini Sauce.
Step Seven
Roll up the wraps and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Falafel Wrap with Lemon Tahini Sauce!
