Crispy Rutabaga Falafel with Creamy Tahini Sauce

If you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic falafel, look no further than these crispy rutabaga falafel balls. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also bring a delightful texture that will keep you coming back for more. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a satisfying snack.

Imagine the earthy taste of rutabaga combined with fragrant herbs and spices, all fried to golden perfection. Paired with a creamy tahini sauce, this dish is deliciously satisfying and offers a fresh take on a Middle Eastern favorite. Whether served in a pita, on a salad, or as an appetizer, these falafels are sure to delight.

Delicious Rutabaga Falafel Recipe

These rutabaga falafels are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, delivering a pleasant nutty flavor enhanced by spices like cumin and coriander. The tahini sauce adds a rich, creamy element that perfectly complements the flavorful falafel.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rutabaga, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying
• For Tahini Sauce: 1/2 cup tahini, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, minced, salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Rutabaga: Boil the chopped rutabaga in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the cooked rutabaga, chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Pulse until well blended but still slightly chunky.
3. Form Falafel: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in breadcrumbs. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
4. Fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the falafel balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Make Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, water, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth. Adjust thickness with more water if needed.
6. Serve: Enjoy the rutabaga falafel warm, drizzled with tahini sauce, and garnished with fresh parsley.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

If you would like to try more interesting globally-inspired recipes with this unique vegetable, check out our blog, 15 Delicious and Nutritious Internationally-inspired Rutabaga Recipes.

There is a fuller version of this idea in my free eBook.