Can You Buy Pre-Made Vegan Falafel Balls or Patties? Where to Find Them and How to Enjoy

Looking for a quick and easy vegan Falafel solution without the hassle of making it from scratch? Pre-made Falafel balls or patties are a popular option, and they can be a delicious addition to your meal. In this article, we explore where to find pre-made vegan Falafel in stores, how to enjoy them, and the benefits of making your own.

Where to Find Pre-Made Vegan Falafel

If you're a fan of Falafel and are always on the lookout for a convenient meal option, you might have come across pre-made Falafel balls or patties. These frozen products can be found in many grocery stores, such as Aldi, where they are typically located in the freezer section. However, it's important to note that the availability of these items may vary from store to store.

A few times, I have found Appetitos Falafel in the freezer section of my local Aldi grocery store. However, as these products are not consistently available, it's not advisable to rely on them for a regular supply. This uncertainty can be frustrating for those who frequently enjoy homemade Falafel.

Another option is to check your local health food stores or co-ops. In the past, I have found pre-made Falafel at a couple of health food stores in the form of deli counter items. While the availability here is also inconsistent, these stores can offer a wider variety of vegan Falafel options.

Heating Pre-Made Falafel Balls and Patties

So, you’ve bought frozen Falafel balls or patties, now what? Heating them up is the next step, and there are several methods you can use. One of my favorites is to heat them in an air fryer, which is both quick and efficient. If you have an air fryer, preheat it to the recommended temperature and cook the Falafel until they are crispy and golden brown. This method works for both balls and patties, and you can enjoy them as a standalone snack or as part of a meal.

Alternatively, you can also heat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the Falafel balls or patties on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. This method is also great for larger quantities and is perfect for making ahead of time.

Another option is to use a skillet. Heat some oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Falafel balls or patties and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and golden. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than frying. This method is ideal for a quick pan-fry, making it a great option for busy days.

Making Your Own Falafel

While pre-made Falafel balls and patties are convenient, making your own is a rewarding experience that allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste. Jeff Smith, better known as The Frugal Gourmet, had a delicious recipe that can be found online. His recipe involves soaking chickpeas, blending them with herbs, spices, and vegetables, and then forming them into balls or patties before frying them.

homemade Falafel has several advantages:

Taste: You can control the flavors and ingredients, making it easy to cater to your preferences. Quality: Fresh ingredients ensure a higher quality product with no preservatives or additives. Health: You have full control over the nutritional content, making it a healthier option. Customization: You can adjust the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or herb combinations.

While it may seem like a lot of work, the effort is well worth it. The process involves several steps but is not overly complicated. Here is a simple recipe that you can follow:

Ingredients:

1 (15-oz) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 medium garlic clove, minced 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon dried fenugreek 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 cup ice cold water

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until they start to break apart but still have some texture. Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, fenugreek, salt, and pepper. Add the olive oil and mix well. Add the ice-cold water gradually, mixing until the mixture holds together when shaped into a ball or patty. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping into balls or patties. Heat oil in a deep fryer, air fryer, or skillet. Fry the falafel until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Serve with your favorite falafel sauce and garnishes.

Conclusion

While pre-made Falafel balls and patties offer convenience, making your own can provide endless culinary possibilities and a healthier option. Whether you buy pre-made Falafel or make it from scratch, this delicious Middle Eastern snack is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy exploring different recipes and finding your perfect Falafel recipe!