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Falafel is one of those Mediterranean foods that feels timeless—crispy, savory, and instantly recognizable whether you’re eating it from a street cart, at a family table, or tucked into a pita with tahini. But a short history of falafel is anything but simple: its origin story is debated, its ingredients shift by region, and its rise to global fame is tied to migration, street food culture, and the way “everyday” dishes travel across borders.
At its core, falafel is a mixture of ground legumes—most commonly chickpeas, fava beans, or a blend—seasoned with herbs and spices, shaped into balls or patties, and fried until golden. Some people love it as a snack on its own; others consider it incomplete without the full lineup: warm pita, fresh salad, pickles, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce. However you eat it, falafel carries a story that stretches across centuries and coastlines.
Before we dive deeper into a short history of falafel, it helps to define what we’re talking about—because “falafel” doesn’t look exactly the same everywhere.
While the exact origins of falafel are unknown, several popular theories exist. Most of these theories agree that falafel was developed in Egypt. However, the subject of when and by whom is somewhat contested. Some maintain that it dates back about 1,000 years to the Egyptian Copts, who brought it with them from the Middle East. Others say that falafel originated in India in the 6th century.
One of the more accepted theories places the invention of falafel in more modern times, in the late 19th century. This is around the time when the dish began to appear in Egyptian literature, following the British occupation in 1882. According to this theory, British officers enjoyed fried vegetable croquettes while in India and asked their Egyptian cooks to prepare a version using local ingredients.
It is believed that falafel first emerged in Alexandria, the principal port of Egypt, and the city with the largest concentration of European troops. Unlike many of the popular versions served in today’s falafel restaurants, this first falafel was made with fava beans. As the name for fava beans in Egyptian is ful, it is believed that the word falafel comes from these original Mediterranean recipes.
Despite ample evidence suggesting that falafel originated in Egypt, several other countries also claim the dish as their own. Israel is perhaps the most steadfast in its claim, even advertising falafel as one of their national dishes and putting it into songs. However, it is almost certain that falafel originated from Alexandria and spread to Jewish communities in Palestine. These communities integrated the dish into their cuisine, but it was still not widely accepted.
In 1948, Israel became an independent state. Jewish people from Yemen, Turkey, and North Africa soon started immigrating to Israel, bringing with them a taste for falafel, which had already successfully spread to their countries from Egypt. After falafel’s popularity exploded in Israel, it began to spread to Europe and the United States in the late 20th century as immigrants brought a bit of home with them to their new countries.
While other countries — such as Palestine, Lebanon, and Yemen — dispute Israel’s claim and name falafel as their own, what isn’t disputed are the health benefits of Mediterranean food. For instance, the Mediterranean diet can help improve glycemic control and protect against type 2 diabetes. To see these healthy perks at the best falafel restaurant around, order online or visit Aladdin today.
Reading a short history of falafel is fun, but tasting it is even better—especially when it’s made fresh, properly seasoned, and served the way it’s meant to be enjoyed: hot, crisp, and satisfying.
At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine in Houston, falafel is a classic you can count on—perfect as a snack, a wrap, or a full plate alongside Mediterranean favorites. Whether you’re a longtime falafel loyalist or trying it for the first time, it’s one of those dishes that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
What is falafel?
Falafel is a traditional Mediterranean dish made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or a combination of both, shaped into balls or patties, and then deep-fried. It’s commonly served in pita bread with salads and tahini sauce.
Where did falafel originate?
Most evidence suggests that falafel originated in Egypt, likely in Alexandria, although several countries claim to have invented it.
Is falafel healthy?
Yes, falafel is naturally plant-based, high in protein and fiber, and aligns well with a Mediterranean diet known for its numerous health benefits.
Why is there controversy over falafel’s origin?
Falafel’s history is debated because many Middle Eastern countries claim it as their national dish. Its popularity and migration make tracing a single origin difficult.
How is falafel served at Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine?
At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine in Houston, falafel is made fresh daily, served as a plate or in a wrap with classic Mediterranean sides and sauces.
If you zoom out and look at a short history of falafel, you’re really looking at the story of everyday Mediterranean food at its best—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and a recipe that traveled far beyond its original streets and markets. Yes, the exact origins are still debated, but what’s not up for debate is how falafel has become a beloved staple worldwide.
Want to taste that history instead of just reading about it? Stop by Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine in Houston and try our freshly made falafel—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with the kind of flavor that keeps this classic alive generation after generation.
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