Name: Mediterranean Falafel Burger Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 (14.5 oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley; 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour; 2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tsp. ground cumin; ½ tsp. salt; ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes; ¼ tsp. black pepper; 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup shredded cucumber, water squeezed out; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp. lemon juice; ¼ tsp. salt; ¼ tsp. black pepper; 4 hamburger buns; 6 oz. feta cheese, sliced; 8 tomato slices; 4 red onion slices; 4 leaves of lettuce

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Mediterranean Falafel Burger is a flavorful twist on the classic burger, combining the vibrant spices of falafel with fresh toppings and creamy yogurt sauce. It’s a perfect vegetarian option that’s satisfying and easy to make at home.

Mediterranean Falafel Burger Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 (14.5 oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro
2 tsp. ground cumin
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
¼ tsp. black pepper
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
4 hamburger buns
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup shredded cucumber, water squeezed out
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp. lemon juice
¼ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
6 oz. feta cheese, sliced
8 tomato slices
4 red onion slices
4 leaves of lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, flour, cilantro, cumin, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Pulse about 10 times until the mixture is combined and comes together.
Step 2: Lay 5 sheets of paper towel on the counter. Transfer the mixture onto the towels and gently squeeze out excess liquid. Add more paper towels if needed. Shape the mixture into 4 even patties using your hands.
Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a medium nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until golden brown on the bottom, about 4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until browned, about another 4 minutes. Remove the patties from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, shredded cucumber, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to make the sauce. Spread the sauce on the tops and bottoms of each hamburger bun.
Step 5: Assemble the burgers by placing the falafel patties on the buns. Top each patty with feta cheese slices, tomato slices, red onion slices, and lettuce leaves. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, chill the falafel mixture for 30 minutes before shaping the patties.
Swap out the vegetable oil for olive oil for a richer flavor.
Add a dollop of hummus to the bun for extra creaminess.
Use whole wheat buns or pita bread for a healthier or traditional touch.
For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add some harissa to the yogurt sauce.

Storage

Store leftover falafel patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep them crispy. Keep the yogurt sauce refrigerated and give it a stir before serving again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the falafel patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture and shape the patties a few hours ahead. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook to maintain freshness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.