A great way to prepare this popular Middle Eastern street food in a fast fashion is to make the falafel mixture ahead and freeze it for later use. This “can you freeze falafel” guide, shows you step by step how to freeze falafel mixture two ways, helping you save time.
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Why Freeze Falafel Mix?
Freezing falafel mix can be a convenient way to store it for longer periods and maintain its freshness (I think it's the best way). Here are a few reasons why freezing falafel mix can be beneficial:
- Prolongs shelf life: By freezing falafel mix, you can extend its shelf life beyond what is possible in the refrigerator. Freezing slows down the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds that can cause spoilage, allowing you to keep the mix for several months.
- Convenience: If you make a large batch of falafel mix but don't plan to use it all at once, freezing allows you to portion it out and use it whenever you need it. This can be especially useful if you have limited time for cooking or if you want to have a quick and easy meal option readily available.
- Time-saving: By preparing the mix in advance and freezing it, you can save time when you want to cook it later. Instead of starting from scratch, you can head over to your freezer and either cook from frozen or thaw out - read on for these instructions.
How To Freeze Falafel Mix
These instructions will discuss freezing uncooked falafel balls or falafel mix. Select the method that best works for you, one method is not better than the other, it comes down to personal preference.
I personally have been doing both methods for years as taught to me by my mother.
Prepare the mix. Create the falafel mix as per normal.
Decide whether you would like to freeze mix or falafel balls.
Freeze Falafel Balls
Shape the falafel balls and place the individual portions in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
This allows them to freeze individually and prevents them from sticking together.
Flash freeze. Put the baking sheet in the freezer and leave it until the portions are completely frozen. This process usually takes a few hours. I like to keep mine overnight.
Transfer to a freezer. Once the portions are frozen solid, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag which includes the date. Remove any excess air from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.
Storage and cooking. Keep frozen for up to six (6) months. Frozen falafel balls can be cooked from frozen (either frying, air fried or oven-baked will work).
Freeze Falafel Mix
Place the mix into a freezer-friendly snap-lock bag and smooth out the mixture in the bag to form a flat rectangle.
Press out as much air as possible and then seal the bag shut. Place the sealed bag flat in the freezer. Keep frozen for up to six (6) months.
Defrosting and cooking. To defrost, simply place the bag on a plate in the fridge overnight. It will be thawed by the next day, then shape into balls and cook as you normally would (fry, oven-baked or air fried).
Proper Storage Techniques
To ensure the best quality and prevent freezer burn, it is essential to follow proper storage techniques when freezing falafel:
- Use airtight containers or freezer bags to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
- Divide the mixture into individual portions or layers to make it easier to thaw/cook only what you need.
- Remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the falafel in the coldest part of the freezer to maintain its freshness.
Tips for Freezing Falafel
Here are some additional tips to help you achieve the best results when freezing falafel:
- Label and date: Always label your containers or bags with the freezing date to keep track of their freshness. Falafel mixture can typically be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
- Use within recommended timeframe: While frozen falafel can last for several months, it's best to use them within 2-3 months for the best quality and flavor. Over time, frozen foods can experience some loss in texture and taste, so it's ideal to consume them relatively soon.
- Thawing: When you're ready to cook the falafel mixture that hasn't been frozen in the shape of a ball, transfer the desired amount from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Thawing in the refrigerator helps maintain the texture and prevents any potential bacterial growth.
Falafel Maker
I highly recommend using a falafel maker to make your falafel balls to ensure uniformity and even frying. It also creates a more authentic look.
FAQs
Falafel mix can be stored in the freezer for up to three to six months. It is best to use and consume the falafel mix sooner rather than later to ensure the quality and taste is still intact.
In conclusion, freezing falafel mix is a convenient way to preserve this delectable Middle Eastern dish for later cooking.
By following the proper freezing and storage techniques, you can maintain the taste and texture.
More Falalel Info
Do you love saving time when cooking, make the falafel spices and herbs blend ahead of time.
Here's my Lebanese family's authentic falafel recipe or for a less-oil version try my air fryer falafel recipe.
This curated list covers what to eat with falafel or perhaps try them in a falafel bowl.
For those who love on the run try a satisfying pita sandwich filled with falafel, it's the best!
Are you curious to know if falafel is vegan? Or perhaps is falafel gluten free?
Make This Recipe Next...
When your ready to use your falafel, enjoy them in a bowl, this is the way my Lebanese family loves their falafel bowls.
Did you enjoy this article? I would love to hear from you, leave me a comment below with your thoughts. If you love sharing your vegan food pics, join the PBF community group
Can You Freeze Falafel Homemade Mix (How To Guide)
Equipment
- 1 Falafel maker
Materials
Instructions
Freezing Uncooked Falafel Balls
- Form the falafel mix into small patties or balls, as you would when cooking them.Place the individual portions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows them to freeze individually and prevents them from sticking together. Put the baking sheet with the falafel mix in the freezer and leave it until the portions are completely frozen. This process usually takes a few hours.1 Falafel mix
- Once the portions are frozen solid, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag. Remove any excess air from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.
Freezing Falafel Mix
- Place the falafel mix into a freezer-friendly snaplock bag and smooth out the mixture in the bag to form a flat rectangle. Press out as much air as possible and then seal the bag shut.Place the sealed bag flat in the freezer. To defrost, simply place the bag on a plate in the fridge overnight. It will be thawed by the next day, then shape into balls and cook as you normally would (fry, oven-baked or air fried)
Storage and Cooking
- Keep both abovementioned methods frozen for up to six months. Cook from frozen, either frying, air fried or oven-baked will work.
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