Falafel with hummus is more than just a dish—it's a satisfying, vibrant experience. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and served with creamy hummus and fresh veggies, it's a favorite for good reason.
For Lykkers seeking a plant-powered meal that's wholesome and bursting with flavor, this guide will walk you through how to make both elements from scratch, with plenty of flexibility to make it your own.
Part 1: How to Make Falafel and Hummus
The heart of this recipe lies in simple ingredients handled with care. You'll soak your chickpeas, blend up some fresh herbs, and end up with little golden bites that pair perfectly with homemade hummus. Let's get to it.
The Ingredients You'll Need
(Serves 3–4)
For the Falafel:
Dried chickpeas – 200g (soaked overnight in water, then drained)
Onion – 1 small (about 80g), chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves
Fresh parsley – 20g
Fresh cilantro – 20g
Cumin – 1 tsp
Coriander – 1 tsp
Baking powder – 1 tsp
All-purpose flour – 30g
Salt – 2g
Black pepper – to taste
Neutral oil – for shallow frying
For the Hummus:
Cooked chickpeas – 250g
Tahini (Sesame paste) – 60g
Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 1 small clove
Cold water – 60g (adjust for texture)
Olive oil – 10g (plus extra for drizzling)
Salt – to taste
Paprika and parsley – for garnish
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Make the Falafel Mixture
After soaking and draining your chickpeas, add them to a food processor with the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until you get a coarse mixture that holds together when pressed—like damp sand. You'll add the cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour, then pulse again briefly. Don't overblend—it should still have some texture.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps it hold its shape when cooking.
Step 2: Form and Fry the Falafel
Once the mixture is chilled, use your hands or a spoon to form small balls or patties. Heat a layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. When hot, gently place the falafel in and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Work in batches and place cooked falafel on paper towels to drain.
Step 3: Make the Hummus
While the falafel rests, blend the cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a food processor. As it blends, drizzle in the cold water a little at a time until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or a touch of olive oil for richness.
Transfer the hummus to a bowl, swirl the top with the back of a spoon, and drizzle with olive oil. Finish with a sprinkle of paprika and chopped parsley.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your falafel warm with a generous scoop of hummus on the side. Add flatbread, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or pickled vegetables if you like. You can also wrap everything up in a warm pita or stuff into lettuce leaves for a lighter take.
Part 2: Tips, Tweaks, and Serving Ideas
Why This Combo Works
It's all about contrast: crunchy falafel with soft, creamy hummus; bright herbs with nutty tahini; warm bites with cool vegetables. It's filling, flavorful, and naturally plant-based.
Shortcuts and Substitutes
No time to soak chickpeas? Try canned, but make sure to dry them well and add more flour to help bind. For the hummus, canned chickpeas work great—just peel them if you want extra smooth results. No food processor? A blender or potato masher can do in a pinch.
Customizing Your Plate
Add chopped olives, shredded carrots, or a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for extra flair. You can also bake the falafel at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, if you prefer not to fry.
Make-Ahead Magic
Falafel mix can be made a day ahead and kept chilled. Hummus keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and actually improves in flavor overnight.
Perfect Pairings
This duo goes great with a side salad, roasted eggplant, or even as a topping for grain bowls. It's lunch, dinner, or snack—whenever you need a bite that feels complete.
Falafel with hummus is a showcase of plant-based cooking at its best—crunchy, creamy, herby, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you're preparing a platter for friends or a quick solo lunch, this recipe brings comfort and joy in every scoop and bite. So Lykkers, roll up your sleeves, mash those chickpeas, and enjoy a meal that's humble, hearty, and full of flavor. Want to try baked falafel or beet hummus next? Let's blend that into the future.
