Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of deep-fried balls made of chickpeas or fava beans. It is a delicious treat that is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Falafel is traditionally served with a variety of accompaniments, each adding its unique flavor and texture to the dish.
If you’re new to falafels, it can be tricky to decide what to serve with them. Should you go for the classic pita bread or try something more unconventional? In this article, we’ll explore the many delicious ways to serve falafels with complementary sides and sauces, from fresh salads and vegetables to popular Middle Eastern dips. So, whether you’re a fan of traditional falafel or looking to get creative with your sides, read on to discover what you can eat with falafels.
Common Side Dishes for Falafels: What Goes Best With Them?
Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern snack made of chickpeas, spices and herbs that are deep-fried to impart a crispy exterior, while retaining their moistness and earthy flavors on the inside. However, falafels alone might not be enough to curb your hunger. This is where the rich array of side dishes come to play.
Some of the most common side dishes for falafels include hummus, tzatziki, pita bread, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, hot sauce, and pickled vegetables. Hummus is a great dip to enjoy with falafels, made up of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and a hint of lemon juice. Similarly, tzatziki is a creamy and fragrant dip made from yogurt, garlic, cucumber, and herbs, which complements the flavors of falafels perfectly. Tabbouleh, on the other hand, is a salad dish made up of chopped parsley, onions, tomatoes, and lemon juice paired with cracked wheat. You can also opt for a hot sauce, baba ganoush, or pickled vegetables, which add some zing, tanginess, and excitement to the dish, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day.
Variety is Key: Exploring Different Combinations of Falafels and Side Dishes
Falafels are a traditional Middle Eastern dish that are enjoyed across the world. While they are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can truly elevate their flavors and make for a memorable meal. The key to creating the perfect pairing with falafels is to experiment with different combinations and flavors to find what works best for you.
One popular combination for falafels is to pair them with a healthy and fresh salad. Choose a mixture of greens along with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes to create a flavorful and crunchy side dish that complements the rich flavors of falafels. You can also add a drizzle of tahini sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest. Another popular option is to serve falafels with fluffy pita bread and hummus. This combination is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it provides a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whichever combination you choose, remember that variety is key to exploring different flavors and pairings with falafels.
Balanced Nutrition: Adding Vegetables and Other Nutritious Sides to Your Falafel Meal
Falafels are a delicious and nutritious source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. However, to ensure a well-balanced diet, it is important to pair them with other nutritious sides and vegetables. By adding a variety of vegetables to your falafel meal, you can not only increase the flavor and variety of your meal but also provide your body with a range of vitamins and minerals.
To start, consider adding some leafy greens like spinach or kale to your falafel wrap or salad. These greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K as well as iron, calcium, and fiber. You can also add some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or onions for some added crunch and flavor. Other nutritious sides to consider include hummus, tahini, yogurt, or baba ganoush, all of which are high in protein and healthy fats. With these nutritious sides, you can create a well-balanced and fulfilling falafel meal.
From Tahini to Hummus: Popular Dips and Sauces to Pair With Falafels
Falafels are a Middle Eastern dish that is enjoyed all over the world. One of the things that makes them so versatile is that they can be served with a variety of dips and sauces for added flavor and texture.
Tahini and hummus are two of the most popular dips to pair with falafels. Tahini is a sauce made from ground sesame seeds that is rich and creamy in texture, while hummus is a chickpea-based dip that is traditionally seasoned with garlic and lemon juice. Both tahini and hummus are widely available and can be purchased at most grocery stores. Other dips and sauces that go well with falafels include tzatziki, baba ghanoush, and yogurt-based sauces. These dips and sauces not only enhance the flavor of the falafels but also add a cooling and refreshing element to the dish.
Moving Beyond Pita: Creative Bread Options to Accompany Your Falafels
Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern snack that is perfect for any mealtime. While they’re traditionally served in pita bread, it’s always good to mix things up sometimes. That’s where creative bread options come in to play.
One option is to swap out the pita for a wrap made with lavash bread. Lavash is a thin, unleavened bread that is flexible enough to wrap around your falafels. Alternatively, you could use naan bread to make a sandwich with your falafels. Naan is known for its soft and fluffy texture, which makes it an excellent pairing for the crispy falafels. Finally, you could try using a baguette to make a hearty sandwich. Cut the baguette in half, top it with your falafels, and add some fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber for a satisfying meal. There are so many bread options available, so let your creativity run wild and enjoy your falafels in new and exciting ways.
The Perfect Beverage Pairings for Falafel Lovers
Falafels are an incredibly versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether it’s on their own as a snack or paired with other dishes as part of a meal, falafels are a popular choice for vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike. However, what many people often overlook is the importance of choosing the right beverage to complement their falafel dish.
When it comes to pairing beverages with falafels, there are a few options to consider. One popular choice is a cold beer, which can help to refresh your palate and cut through the rich, flavorful falafels. Alternatively, if you prefer non-alcoholic options, mint or cucumber-infused water can also be a great choice. These beverages can help to balance out the spiciness of the falafels and provide a cool, refreshing contrast. Ultimately, when choosing a beverage to pair with your falafels, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and the specific flavors of your dish.
Ordering Options: What to Expect When Dining Out With Falafels.
When dining out with falafels, it is important to explore the different ordering options available. The first option is the traditional serving style, where falafels are served with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, and a side of vegetables. This is the perfect meal option for someone who wants to enjoy the full falafel experience.
If you want to switch things up, you can try falafel wraps, where falafels are wrapped in a tortilla with vegetables, sauce, and pickles. This option is perfect for an on-the-go meal or a quick lunch option. Additionally, some restaurants offer falafel bowls where falafels are served with a bed of rice, salad, and various sauce options. This option is perfect for those who want to enjoy falafels with a twist. Finally, some restaurants offer falafel sandwiches, where falafels are stuffed in a sandwich with various vegetables, sauce, and pickles. No matter what your preference is, dining out with falafels is an exciting and delicious experience.
Final Thoughts
With the growing popularity of falafels around the world, it is not surprising that many people are curious about what goes well with this delectable Middle Eastern treat. Falafels are versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes and sauces to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you prefer to enjoy them as a sandwich or as part of a mezze platter, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.
Some popular choices for serving with falafels include hummus, tzatziki, tabbouleh, pickled vegetables, and pita bread. These sides not only complement falafels but also provide a balance of flavors and textures to your meal. You can also experiment with different toppings and seasonings to create new and exciting flavor combinations. Whether you are looking for a quick snack or a full meal, falafels make a great choice and can be enjoyed in many different ways.