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Vegan Lebanese Snack: Delightful Falafel Pita Bites with Tahini Sauce

A flavorful lebanese snack perfect for vegan eaters - made for visual appeal and culinary depth.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total) - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 10 minutes - Total Time: 30 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4 servings
🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate
🌎 Cuisine: Lebanese, Vegan

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups chickpeas, cooked
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 large pita breads
  • 1 cup tahini sauce (store
  • bought or homemade)
  • Vegetable sticks for serving (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers)

Instructions

  1. a. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pulse until mixture forms a slightly chunky paste. b. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, round falafel patties. c. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add falafel patties and cook for 2 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from pan and set aside. d. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm pita breads in the oven for 3 4 minutes. e. Assemble falafel bites by placing a falafel patty inside each warmed pita, topping with tahini sauce and vegetable sticks.

Chef’s Insight

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure the falafel mixture is not too wet or dry. - Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pita bread. - Replace tahini sauce with hummus or another favorite dipping sauce.

Cultural or Historical Background

Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that dates back to ancient Egypt, where chickpeas and fava beans were commonly consumed. It has since spread throughout the region and become a staple in Lebanese cuisine.