Low Sodium Classic Falafel Balls

Discover the perfect balance of bold flavors and heart-healthy cooking with these Low Sodium Classic Falafel Balls. Made from soaked dried chickpeas and a vibrant mix of fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and onion, these golden-brown delights are packed with plant-based protein and herbs. Seasoned with aromatic cumin and coriander and a hint of lemon juice, these falafel balls are a deliciously satisfying option for those watching their sodium intake. Lightly pan-fried in olive oil for a crisp exterior, they're ideal for serving in warm pita bread, atop a fresh salad, or with a dollop of low-sodium tzatziki or tahini sauce. Ready in just over half an hour (after soaking the chickpeas), this recipe offers a wholesome, flavorful take on a Mediterranean classic without compromising on taste or health.

Nutriscore Rating: 84/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas
• 1 medium onion
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 0.5 cup fresh parsley
• 0.5 cup fresh cilantro
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1.5 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried chickpeas thoroughly and place them in a large bowl. Cover with about 3 inches of water and allow them to soak overnight for at least 12 hours. Drain and rinse again before use.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, onion, garlic cloves, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely minced; be careful not to over-process into a paste.

Step 3

Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, baking soda, lemon juice, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

Step 4

Using your hands, form the chickpea mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten slightly.

Step 5

Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the falafel balls, flattening them slightly for even cooking.

Step 6

Cook the falafel in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 7

Once done, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 8

Serve warm as is, or in pita bread with your choice of vegetables and a low-sodium sauce such as tahini or tzatziki.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(461.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1116.7

Total Fat 42.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1344.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 150.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.9g	0%
Total Sugars 29.9g
Protein 43.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 381.0mg	0%
Iron 18.5mg	0%
Potassium 2499.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.8%

Protein: 15.1%

Carbs: 52.1%