What is falafel? It is a crispy, deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas and herbs. First, cooks blend the chickpeas with garlic, onion and spices. Then they shape the mix into small balls or patties. Finally, they fry them until golden and crunchy. As a result, each one turns crisp outside and soft inside.
In this guide, we explain where the dish comes from, what goes into it, and how cooks make it. We also cover how it tastes and how it is served. Finally, we show you where to try it halal in Kuala Lumpur.
The origin of falafel
Falafel most likely comes from Egypt, where cooks first made it with fava beans. In fact, the Levant later embraced it and switched to chickpeas. From there, it spread across the Middle East and beyond. Today, street stalls everywhere sell it. Still, its roots run deep in the region.
What is falafel made of?
So what goes into falafel? It relies on a few simple ingredients:
- Chickpeas: soaked and ground, the hearty base.
- Fresh herbs: parsley and coriander for the green centre.
- Garlic and onion: for a savoury, aromatic base.
- Spices: cumin and ground coriander for warmth.
Together, these parts create a fragrant, savoury bite. Above all, the fresh herbs give it that signature green centre.
How falafel is made
The frying is what makes falafel special. First, cooks grind the soaked chickpeas with herbs and spices. Then they shape the paste into small balls. Next, they fry them until deep golden and crisp. As a result, each one stays light and fluffy inside.
What does it taste like?
It tastes savoury, herby and nutty, with a satisfying crunch. The crisp shell gives way to a soft, green centre. Meanwhile, cumin and coriander add gentle warmth. Because it is fried fresh, it never feels heavy. So it makes a moreish start to any meal.
How it is served
Restaurants usually serve these golden bites warm. Often, they come with tahini sauce, fresh salad and pickles. At Lalezar, we serve ours crisp and fresh as a mezze to share. So they pair perfectly with hummus and warm bread.
Is falafel halal and vegan?
Is falafel halal? Yes, and it is naturally vegan and vegetarian too. The recipe uses only chickpeas, herbs, spices and oil, with no meat at all. Of course, at a halal kitchen every ingredient still meets halal standards. At Lalezar, we prepare every dish halal.
Where to try falafel in Kuala Lumpur
Has this made you hungry? Then come and share our mezze at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Alongside falafel, you will also find hummus, muhammara, kebabs and fragrant rice dishes. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is falafel in simple terms?
Simply put, it is a deep-fried ball of ground chickpeas and herbs, crisp outside and soft inside.
Is it healthy?
It can be. It is plant-based and rich in fibre and protein, though frying does add some oil.
Is it spicy?
Not really. Falafel tastes savoury and herby, with warmth from cumin rather than chilli heat.