Smashed Falafel Wraps

Every time I whip up a batch of Smashed Falafel Wraps, I’m transported back to that little Middle Eastern café down the street from my college dorm. I remember the first time I tasted their falafel — crispy on the outside and warm and fluffy on the inside, it was like a flavor explosion I’d never experienced before. I’d grab a wrap to-go, balancing my books in one hand and savoring each bite as I strolled through campus. Those wraps were my go-to comfort food, and now I’ve made them my own. They’ve become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights when I want something quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious.

Smashed Falafel Wraps are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. They fit perfectly into any season, bringing a little sunshine and zest to rainy afternoons or sunny picnics alike. With a creamy garlic tahini sauce and colorful veggies, these wraps are a delightful way to brighten up your lunch or dinner. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll find yourself wanting to whip them up time and time again!

Why You’ll Love "Smashed Falafel Wraps"

• Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Minimal Ingredients: The recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
• Family Friendly: Kids love the fun of wrapping their own falafel, and the flavors are a hit with everyone.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze for easy meals later; they reheat beautifully!
• Customizable: You can mix and match the fillings and sauces to suit your family’s tastes perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Falafel:
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup chopped parsley (about 20 g)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro (about 10 g)
• 1 tablespoon plain flour (can substitute with chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
• Seasoning:
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Wrap Fillings:
• Pickles, your choice (dill or spicy add a nice kick!)
• Tomatoes, sliced (ripe and juicy is best)
• Onion, thinly sliced (red onions add a lovely sweetness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Garlic Tahini Sauce:
• ½ cup tahini (look for a smooth, well-stirred brand)
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed (more if you love garlic!)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• ⅓ cup water (adjust for desired sauce consistency)
• Other Ingredients:
• Arabic-style pita bread or tortilla wraps (choose whole grain for extra nutrition)
• Fresh greens, optional (like lettuce or arugula for extra crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Falafel Mixture

1. In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, and plain flour. Make sure everything is in there for a fresh flavor!
2. Add in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Pulse until well mixed but not pureed. You want it to be chunky, not mushy!
3. Once mixed, scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is combined well. Give it another quick pulse to make sure it’s just right.

Cook the Falafel

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add a splash of oil — just enough to coat the bottom. I usually use olive oil for that lovely flavor!
2. Form the falafel mixture into small patties, about the size of a golf ball, then flatten them slightly. You can make them as thick or thin as you like.
3. Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Don’t crowd the pan; do this in batches if necessary!
4. Once cooked, transfer the falafel to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them cool for a minute while you prepare the sauce.

Make the Garlic Tahini Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine the tahini, crushed garlic, salt, lemon juice, and water. You can whisk it all together, or use a fork — whatever is handy!
2. Mix until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more water, just a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; it should be creamy and tangy.

Assemble the Smashed Falafel Wraps

1. Grab your Arabic-style pita bread or tortilla wraps. Lay them flat on a clean surface or a plate.
2. Start with a few pieces of falafel, placing them in the center of each wrap. Don’t skimp — they’re the star of the show!
3. Add pickles, sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Feel free to load them up with your favorite veggies!
4. Drizzle generously with the garlic tahini sauce, making sure every bite will be bursting with flavor.
5. Wrap it up tightly, folding in the sides first and then rolling from the bottom up. You want to keep all that goodness inside!
6. Enjoy immediately or pack them up for lunch later. Either way, these wraps are sure to bring a smile to your face!

Variations

• Add roasted red peppers or grilled zucchini for a smoky flavor.
• Substitute chickpeas with black beans for a different twist.
• Try adding feta cheese or avocado for creaminess.
• Use a spicy harissa sauce instead of garlic tahini for an extra kick.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These Smashed Falafel Wraps are best enjoyed fresh! Serve them warm with a side of fresh greens or a colorful salad for a complete meal. You can also set up a little wrap station, letting everyone customize their own with extra toppings like sliced avocados or hot sauce!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If freezing, wrap each falafel separately and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Helpful Notes

• For a nut-free option, ensure your tahini is made from sesame seeds only.
• Consider adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
• If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tahini mix.
• Chickpea flour can be used instead of regular flour for a gluten-free falafel.
• These wraps can be a great source of protein and fiber, perfect for a filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Smashed Falafel Wraps?

Yes, you can freeze the Smashed Falafel Wraps! Just wrap each falafel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don't have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter or peanut butter for a different flavor twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the taste a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the Smashed Falafel Wraps gluten-free, use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves instead of traditional pita bread or tortillas. Additionally, substitute the plain flour with chickpea flour, which works beautifully in the falafel mixture!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Smashed Falafel Wraps! They’re not just a meal, but a way to gather around the table and share some love. Each bite is filled with flavor and goodness, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual lunch or a family dinner. Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients and make them your own. Remember, cooking is all about joy and creativity! So roll up your sleeves, get in that kitchen, and enjoy the process. You’ve got this, and I know you’ll make something delicious!