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Why my falafel tastes bitter?

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BRAdmin
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Subject: Why Does My Falafel Taste Bitter?

Hello everyone,

I’ve been trying to make falafel using dried chickpeas that I soaked in water for 24 hours before draining (400 grams).

Here’s the recipe I followed:
– Fresh parsley
– Fresh coriander
– 2 medium-sized onions
– 3 tsp salt
– 1 tsp pepper
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– 4 tsp baking soda

I blended the mixture for 3 minutes, let it chill in the fridge for an hour, and then cooked them in an air fryer until the internal temperature reached 74°C.

However, the falafel has a bitter taste, and I can’t figure out why. Any insights? Thanks!

Comments

One response to “Why my falafel tastes bitter?”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    There are a few possible reasons why your falafel may taste bitter:

    1. Coriander: Fresh cilantro (also known as coriander leaves) can sometimes have a bitter taste, especially if it’s overcooked or past its prime. Ensure your herbs are fresh and not wilting or yellowed.

    2. Baking Soda: While baking soda helps with the texture of falafel, using too much can contribute to a bitter flavor. Consider reducing the amount slightly to see if that changes the taste.

    3. Chickpeas Quality: Sometimes, older dried chickpeas can develop a bitter flavor over time. Make sure your chickpeas are fresh and stored properly.

    4. Spices: Certain spices, particularly if they have been stored for a long time, can lose their flavor or even develop bitterness. Make sure your spices are fresh and not past their expiration date.

    5. Cooking Method: If the air fryer is cooking the falafel too quickly or too hot, it could result in a burnt exterior, which might impart a bitter taste. Make sure to monitor the temperature and cooking time.

    6. Blending: Over-blending the mixture can result in the release of too many bitter components from the ingredients. Try blending until just combined rather than smooth.

    7. Oil Quality: If you are using oil for frying or cooking the falafel, ensure that it is fresh and not rancid, as old oil can impact the flavor.

    Try adjusting these components next time, and hopefully, you’ll end up with a delicious, flavorful falafel!

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