Would you like to know where to buy good falafel? Most falafel sold in supermarkets are sold in big plastic trays, and not very nice either. For a true zero waste falafel, you can make your own. But these brands are in cardboard boxes (you can recycle any plastic packaging inside, at supermarket bins). Falafel are made with chickpeas, so contain lots of protein and calcium.
Most supermarket falafel is slimy and greasy and ice-cold (not happening in the Middle East, they also serve hummus freshly made and warm), and don’t really have much going for them. If you want to have a bash yourself, find a recipe at Nadia’s Healthy Kitchen (she lives here, but hails from the Middle East, so the recipe is genuine). This is the zero waste option, the following mixes have plastic packaging, so recycle it in supermarket bag bins.
But if like most of us you are going to buy them, which brand is best? Forget the supermarkets. Reviews range from ‘not offensive, but not interesting’ to ‘horrible, weird flavour, sorry it went in the bin. Yuck’.
These are better brands, you will have to venture to the health store or order online. Contain spices, so keep away from pets and young children.
- Amisa Gluten-Free Organic Falafel Mix is made with natural ingredients, just add water, shape and fry, then serve in 20 minutes. Spiced with cumin & coriander.
- Just Wholefoods Organic Falafel Mix are easy to make. Just empty the sachet and add boiling water, sunflower oil and a little lemon juice, then rest for 10 minutes. Fry in a little hot oil for a few minutes. Serve with salt and lemon juice, salad and pita bread.
- BOSH! Falafels are a blend of chickpeas, onion, garlic and seasonings. Good in burgers, wraps or salads.
