Falafel Grain Bowl with Bulgur and Tahini Lemon Dressing
Why this recipe works
- Contrast in every bite: Warm, crisp falafel is balanced by tender bulgur, crunchy chopped vegetables and a creamy dressing.
- Bright but creamy dressing: Lemon sharpens the tahini while a little water loosens it into a pourable sauce.
- Built for components: The bulgur, salad, falafel and dressing can be stored separately, then assembled when ready to eat.
Get the most out of this recipe
Texture tips
- For crisper falafel: Keep the pan at a steady medium heat so the outside browns evenly before the centre is fully hot.
- For a smoother dressing: If the tahini thickens or seizes after adding lemon, keep whisking and loosen it gradually with a little water.
Ingredient notes
- Bulgur choice: Bulgur brings a nutty flavour and tender bite that suits falafel well; quinoa is a useful alternative if you need a gluten-free base.
- Pickle balance: Dill pickles add sharpness and crunch, helping cut through the richness of the tahini and fried falafel.
- Fresh herbs matter: Parsley and mint give the bowl its fresh lift; use extra parsley if you prefer a more classic falafel-style herb profile.
Make-ahead tips
- Keep components separate: Store the bulgur, chopped salad and dressing in separate airtight containers so the vegetables stay crisp.
- Reheat the falafel properly: Warm the falafel in a 200°C (390°F) oven until piping hot, then add it to the bowl just before serving.
- Dress at the end: Spoon over the tahini lemon dressing only when serving to keep the grain bowl fresh rather than heavy.
Dietary alternatives
- Gluten-free option: Use quinoa instead of bulgur, and check that the falafel mix is certified gluten-free.
- Vegan suitability: The core ingredients are plant-based, but check the dried falafel mix label if cooking for a strict vegan diet.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan and stir in the bulgur with 0.5 tsp of the fine sea salt. Cover, take off the heat, and leave for 12 to 15 minutes until tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, make up the dried falafel mix according to the packet directions, using water if required. Shape into small balls or patties so they cook through evenly. Leave to stand for 5 minutes so the mixture hydrates properly.
- Heat 2 tbsp of the extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Fry the falafel for 6 to 8 minutes, turning, until deep golden and hot all the way through. Transfer to a plate.
- Finely dice the red onion, cucumber, tomato, and dill pickles. Roughly chop the fresh parsley and fresh mint. Toss the chopped salad together in a bowl.
- Finely grate or crush the garlic into a bowl and add the tahini. Squeeze in the lemon juice, then whisk with 2 tbsp of the extra virgin olive oil, 0.5 tsp fine sea salt, and the black pepper. Add a splash of water if needed until it is pourable but still creamy.
- Divide the bulgur between two bowls and top with the chopped salad and the falafel. Spoon over the tahini lemon dressing and finish with any remaining herbs. Serve straight away while the falafel is warm.
Recipe notes
Tips
- For the best texture, keep the oil at a steady medium heat so the falafel browns without burning before the centre is hot.
- If the tahini dressing seizes when you add lemon juice, keep whisking and loosen gradually with a little water until smooth.
- If serving to anyone vulnerable to foodborne illness, make sure the falafel is cooked until piping hot throughout.
Substitutions
- Replace bulgur with quinoa for a gluten-free grain bowl.
- Replace dill pickles with pickled onions for a sweeter, sharper finish.
- Replace fresh mint with extra fresh parsley for a more classic herb profile.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Store bulgur, salad, and dressing separately in airtight containers. Reheat falafel in a 200°C (390°F) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until piping hot; dress the bowls just before serving.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 2 servings
- Total time: 1h (40min active)
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
-
Allergens:
Gluten Sesame Wheat
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