Healthy Heart Foods
FALAFEL BALLS
Meat/Meat Alt

FALAFEL BALLS

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SesameChickpeasVeganVegetarian

Falafel balls are flavorful, deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and spices, offering a plant-based protein option. They are a great source of protein and iron, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

Falafel balls are served in various meal programs across NYC, including school meals, senior nutrition, shelter feeding, catering, and CACFP.

Chef's Tip
To enhance the flavor, consider serving falafel balls with a side of tahini sauce or a fresh salad to complement their texture and taste.
Allergen Info
Contains gluten and sesame; Healthy Heart Food Service offers gluten-free and sesame-free alternatives for those with sensitivities.
Did You Know?
Falafel is believed to have originated in the Middle East, with some historians suggesting that it was first made by Egyptian Copts as a meat substitute during Lent.
NYC Connection
In New York City, falafel has become a staple of street food culture, with famous spots like Mamouns serving it since the 1970s, reflecting the city's diverse culinary landscape.

Popular Home Recipes for FALAFEL BALLS

Example recipe — not from the Healthy Heart kitchen. This is a popular home-style version of FALAFEL BALLS shown for general reference. It does not reflect the ingredients, preparation, or allergens in meals prepared by Healthy Heart Food Service.

These homemade falafel balls are packed with flavor and plant-based protein, perfect for a nutritious meal or snack.

Yield4 servings
Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Total35 min

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. 1Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.
  2. 2In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely ground but not pureed.
  3. 3Add baking soda and flour to the mixture, then pulse again to combine. Add water to adjust consistency if needed.
  4. 4Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  5. 5Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
  6. 6Fry the falafel balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
  7. 7Remove falafel balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Chef Tips

  • For a gluten-free option, use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Falafel mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Serve with pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Example home recipe for reference only — not used by Healthy Heart Food Service. For ingredient and allergen information about meals we serve, contact us.

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Referenced By

Other items that mention FALAFEL BALLS in their descriptions.

About This Item

This menu item is part of meal programs operated by Healthy Heart Food Service, serving schools, childcare centers, senior programs, shelters, and catering clients across New York City, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island. Nutrition information is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central database and reviewed by our registered dietician. Actual values may vary based on preparation methods and serving size. For questions about our meal programs, contact us.