Crispy Smash Falafel Pita Bites topped with tahini sauce, fresh herbs, and chickpea falafel served as a Middle Eastern appetizer.

Smash Falafel Pita Bites

Edward Tracy recipe author portrait in a modern kitchen
Edward TracyRecipe Author
Ingredients
12
Person(s)
  • 1½ cup
    Canned chickpeas
  • 1/4 cup
    Fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup
    Fresh Cilantro
  • 2 tbsp
    Finely chopped onion
  • 2
    Cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp
    Ground Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp
    Ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp
    Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp
    Salt
  • 1/4 tsp
    Black pepper
  • 2 tbsp
    All-purpose flour
  • 1 large
    Egg
  • 1 tbsp
    Olive Oil
  • 3 small
    Pita breads
  • 1/2 cup
    Tahini sauce
  • 2 tbsp
    Fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp
    Water
Directions
  • Prepare the Falafel Mixture

    Add chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped and holds together. Avoid blending into a smooth paste because a slightly textured mixture creates better falafel bites. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and mix in flour and egg until combined

  • Shape the Falafel Bites

    Using your hands or a small scoop, form the chickpea mixture into small rounds. Gently flatten each piece into a bite-sized patty shape. This helps create crispy edges while cooking on the stovetop.

  • Cook the Falafel on the Stovetop

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the falafel patties in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

  • Assemble the Pita Bites

    Warm the pita pieces in the skillet for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted. Spread a small amount of tahini sauce over each pita piece. Place a crispy falafel bite on top and garnish with chopped parsley.

  • Serve and Enjoy

    Arrange the falafel pita bites on a serving plate and serve warm. Add extra tahini sauce, lemon wedges, or fresh herbs on the side for dipping.

Nutritions
  • Calories:
    145
  • Protein:
    5 g
  • Carbohydrates:
    20 g
  • Fat:
    6 g
  • Saturated Fat:
    1 g
  • Fiber:
    4 g
  • Sugar:
    2 g
  • Sodium:
    260 mg
Images
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