Falafel, a beloved staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, is more than just a crispy chickpea delight; it is a versatile dish that can be the star of various meals. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a fan of Middle Eastern flavors, or a vegetarian looking for new ideas, understanding what to eat with falafel can enhance your culinary experience. This guide will take you on a flavorful journey through traditional sides, drinks, and even some unconventional pairings that promise to surprise your taste buds.
What to Serve with Falafel?
To appreciate the full potential of falafel, one must consider the symphony of flavors that accompany it. Falafel is often served with a variety of sides that complement its texture and taste. The key to enhancing the falafel experience lies in pairing it with the right accompaniments that balance its flavors.
A well-rounded falafel meal typically includes a mix of fresh ingredients that highlight the crispy exterior and soft interior of the falafel. These sides not only add flavor but also texture, creating a satisfying and complete dish. From creamy dips to crunchy salads, the possibilities are endless, each offering a unique twist to the classic falafel taste.
For those new to the falafel scene, starting with traditional sides is a great way to ease into this culinary adventure. These sides provide a familiar yet authentic taste that showcases the falafel’s cultural roots and culinary heritage.
What are the Best Traditional Sides for Falafel?
Traditional sides for falafel pay homage to its Middle Eastern origins and enhance its distinct flavor profile. One of the most popular sides is hummus, a creamy chickpea dip that mirrors the base ingredient of falafel. Hummus’s smooth texture and rich taste complement the crispy falafel, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Tzatziki sauce, a refreshing mixture of yogurt, cucumber, and mint, adds a cooling element to falafel. Its tangy flavor cuts through the deep-fried goodness, creating a delightful contrast. Serving falafel with these traditional sides honors its Middle Eastern roots while offering a comforting and familiar taste. They are easy to prepare and widely available, making them accessible to both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.
Another staple side is tabbouleh, a refreshing salad made from parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur. Its zesty and herbaceous profile offers a vibrant contrast to the earthy notes of falafel, making it a perfect match. Tabbouleh adds a burst of freshness that cleanses the palate between bites.
For a more filling option, consider serving falafel with warm pita bread. Pita acts as a soft, chewy vehicle for delivering falafel and its accompaniments in a neat package, making it a convenient choice for casual dining. Its neutral flavor allows the falafel and sides to shine, maintaining a balanced taste.
What Salads Work Best with Falafel?
Salads are a natural companion to falafel, providing a fresh and crisp counterpoint to its savory notes. A classic choice is a simple cucumber and tomato salad. This salad offers a cooling effect and a juicy crunch, enhancing the falafel’s flavors without overpowering them.
For a bit of tang, try a fattoush salad. Made with crispy pita chips, mixed greens, radishes, and a lemony dressing, fattoush adds layers of texture and a citrusy zing. This side is ideal for those who enjoy a little extra crunch with their meals.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a roasted beet salad. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs surprisingly well with falafel, providing a delightful contrast. Add some goat cheese for creaminess and a sprinkle of nuts for additional texture, and you’ve got a salad that’s both visually stunning and delicious.
For those seeking variety, a roasted vegetable salad can be an exciting option. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and eggplants. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of olives introduces a savory note that pairs beautifully with falafel. These salad choices not only enhance your meal but also add nutritional value, making your dining experience both delicious and wholesome.
Which Drinks Complement Falafel the Best?
Pairing the right drink with falafel can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the flavors and providing refreshment. A classic choice is mint tea, which offers a soothing and aromatic complement to the spices in falafel. Served hot or iced, mint tea cleanses the palate and aids digestion.
For those who prefer something chilled, a yogurt-based drink like ayran is an excellent option. Ayran’s creamy, tangy profile balances the falafel’s savory richness, providing a refreshing contrast. It’s a popular choice in many Middle Eastern countries and is well worth trying.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more adventurous, consider a pomegranate soda. Its sweet and tart notes add a playful dimension to the meal, while its fizz provides a lively counterpart to the dense texture of falafel.
For those who enjoy something bubbly, sparkling water with a hint of lime can be an excellent option. The effervescence refreshes the palate, while the lime adds a subtle zing that lifts the flavors of falafel. This drink is light and invigorating, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner. Each of these drink options enhances your falafel experience, offering a satisfying balance between food and beverage.
What are Some Unconventional Sides to Serve with Falafel?
Exploring unconventional sides can breathe new life into your falafel meals. Sweet potato fries, for example, offer a sweet and savory twist that complements the flavors of falafel beautifully. Their crispy exterior and soft interior mirror the texture of falafel while introducing a whole new flavor profile.
Another unexpected side is quinoa salad. Rich in protein and nutrients, quinoa provides a nutty, earthy backdrop that highlights the spices in falafel. Mix it with vegetables and a light vinaigrette for a wholesome and satisfying dish.
For a touch of indulgence, try serving falafel with a side of tzatziki sauce. This creamy cucumber and yogurt dip adds a cool, tangy element that enhances the falafel’s savory flavors. It’s an unconventional choice that pairs exceptionally well with the Middle Eastern staple.
What Dips Can Elevate Your Falafel Experience?
Dips are an integral part of enjoying falafel, adding layers of flavor and texture to each bite. Baba ghanoush, a smoky eggplant dip, is a classic choice that brings depth and richness to the table. Its velvety texture and complex taste make it an excellent companion for falafel.
For spice lovers, harissa is a must-try. This fiery North African chili paste adds a burst of heat and complexity, transforming the falafel experience. Use it sparingly as a condiment to add a kick to your meal.
Tahini sauce, a creamy sesame seed paste, is another fantastic option. Its nutty flavor complements the falafel’s spices, while its smooth texture enhances the overall mouthfeel. Drizzle it over your falafel or serve it as a dipping sauce for a truly authentic experience.
What are Some Unexpected Falafel and Fruit Combinations?
Fruit and falafel might seem like an unusual pairing, but the combination can be surprisingly delightful. Mango chutney, for instance, adds a sweet and tangy kick that brightens up the falafel’s flavors. Its tropical notes provide a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
Another intriguing choice is fig jam. Its natural sweetness and subtle earthiness complement the spices in falafel, creating a unique and memorable flavor experience. Spread it thinly on pita bread alongside your falafel for a gourmet touch.
For those who enjoy a bit of tartness, cranberry sauce is an unexpected yet delightful accompaniment. Its vibrant color and tangy taste add a festive flair to the meal, making it a great choice for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
How Can You Incorporate Falafel into Fusion Dishes?
Falafel’s versatility makes it an excellent candidate for fusion dishes, where culinary traditions collide to create something new and exciting. Consider a falafel taco, where warm falafel balls are nestled in a soft tortilla with avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. This fusion of Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors is a fun twist on both cuisines.
Another creative option is a falafel sushi roll. Replace the traditional rice with a thin layer of hummus and wrap the falafel in nori with cucumber, carrots, and pickled ginger. This innovative dish is not only visually striking but also deliciously satisfying.
For a Mediterranean twist on a classic, try a falafel burger. Swap out the beef patty for a hearty falafel one, topped with feta cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Serve it on a toasted bun with a dollop of tzatziki for a mouthwatering meal that combines the best of both worlds.
What are Some Out-of-the-Box Salad Ideas to Go with Falafel?
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider pairing falafel with an unconventional salad. A watermelon and feta salad offers a refreshing and sweet counterpart to the savory falafel. The juicy watermelon and tangy feta create a delightful balance that’s perfect for summer.
Another option is a grilled peach and arugula salad. The smoky, caramelized peaches add depth, while the peppery arugula provides a fresh and slightly bitter contrast. This salad is a unique and flavorful addition to any falafel meal.
For a hearty option, try a roasted cauliflower and chickpea salad. The roasted veggies add an earthy richness, while the chickpeas echo the falafel’s flavors, tying the meal together. Drizzle with tahini dressing for a delicious and satisfying dish.
With so many options at your fingertips, the possibilities for enjoying falafel are endless.
Where to Find the Best Falafel?
Finding the perfect falafel spot can be a rewarding experience, especially if you’re eager to savor authentic and delicious flavors. In Houston, Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine stands out as a must-visit destination for falafel lovers. Known for its dedication to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, Aladdin offers an extensive menu that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine.
At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, you’ll find falafel that is expertly crafted, with a perfect balance of spices and a satisfying crunch. Their commitment to authenticity ensures that every bite transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing a memorable dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of the region.
Whether you’re a fan of falafel or new to the world of Middle Eastern cuisine, Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine offers a welcoming environment where you can explore and enjoy a variety of dishes. Their dedication to quality and taste makes them a top choice for anyone seeking an exceptional falafel experience. Visit Aladdin and discover the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions that make falafel a beloved dish around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat falafel by itself?
While falafel is traditionally served in a pita or wrapped with various toppings and condiments, it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.
How are falafels traditionally eaten?
Falafels are typically eaten as a sandwich or wrap, with fillings such as veggies, dips, and sauces. They can also be served on a platter with various sides and dips for dipping.
What is the main ingredient in falafel?
The main ingredient in falafel is chickpeas, which are blended with herbs and spices before being formed into balls or patties and fried.
Can you eat falafels without cooking?
It is not recommended to eat raw falafels as they are typically made with uncooked chickpeas. However, some restaurants offer a baked or grilled option for those looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version.
Are falafels ready to eat?
Falafels are typically cooked before being served and should be eaten when they are warm for the best flavor and texture.
