Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern street food and Mediterranean staple that has made waves in American cuisine, especially among vegetarian eaters. Though Mediterranean food is known to be low in saturated fats and sugars, is Mediterranean food — and falafel — healthy?
Is falafel, a popular Middle Eastern street food and Mediterranean staple, considered healthy in Mediterranean cuisine known for its low saturated fats and sugars?
Here’s what you should know about your favorite falafel options and if Houston’s best Mediterranean food is healthy.
Falafel is indeed a healthy choice when it comes to Mediterranean cuisine. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients, falafel can be a nutritious addition to your diet. However, it is crucial to consider the preparation method. Deep-fried falafel may be higher in calories and fat than baked or grilled options. Additionally, the choice of accompaniments, such as sauces and toppings, can also impact the overall healthiness of your falafel dish. Therefore, opt for lighter dressings and load up on fresh vegetables for a well-balanced and nutritious falafel meal.
What is falafel?
Falafel is a vegetarian dish made from deep-fried chickpeas or fava beans. For convenience, it is often shaped into balls, patties, or doughnut shapes.
Of course, a deep-fried or oven-baked chickpea ball isn’t great without a number of flavors and Mediterranean spices. For complex flavors, Falafel typically incorporates herbs and spices, including onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, scallions, and garlic. They’re often eaten on their own to be shared among friends. Still, they can also be incorporated into a pita with tahini, lettuce, cucumbers, and more for an indulgent falafel sandwich treat.
Falafel is a popular vegetarian dish made from deep-fried chickpeas or fava beans. It comes in various forms, such as balls, patties, or doughnut shapes, making it convenient for on-the-go consumption. This flavorful dish is enhanced with a blend of Mediterranean spices and herbs, including onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, scallions, and garlic. While falafel can be enjoyed as a snack, it is often served in pita bread with tahini, lettuce, cucumbers, and other toppings for a delightful and indulgent meal.
The history of falafel is not easily traced. Like most popular Mediterranean staples, many countries claim to have been the first inventors of the delicacy. More than 20 countries border the Mediterranean Sea alone. Egyptians claimed they created it more than 1,000 years ago, but others claim the food came from the Indian subcontinent. Regardless of where the food was produced, countless Americans are happy to enjoy this Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine at their local falafel restaurant.
Is it healthy?
Even though falafel is a deep-fried treat, it’s still one of the most healthy foods available at your Mediterranean restaurant. Chickpeas are considered a superfood; the little legume is packed with protein, fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin C, zinc, copper, manganese, and more. When put into a pita with other healthy ingredients, you’re getting one of the best meals for bodily health. This makes it a popular option for vegetarians and vegans who want to boost their protein intake and supplement their body with healthy nutrients.
Are you looking to try falafel? Visit the healthy Mediterranean restaurant Houston Trusts: at Aladdin’s, we offer the best Mediterranean Cuisine, Halal, and falafel. Order online or contact us today for more information on catering.
Check out Aladdin’s, a Mediterranean restaurant in Houston that offers healthy and delicious dishes, including falafel. You can order online or contact them for catering services. Visit their website for more information.
