INTERNATIONAL FALAFEL DAY
Every year on June 12th, falafel lovers come together to celebrate International Falafel Day. It’s also a day to encourage people who have never eaten falafel to give it a try.
For those who don’t know what it is, falafel is a deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas. It can also be flat or a doughnut-shaped patty. Falafel is sometimes also made with fava beans. Other ingredients might include onions and spices, such as cumin or coriander. Some people eat Falafel on its own while others stuff it inside a pita and eat it as a wrap. Because falafel doesn’t contain any meat or dairy, the food is a favorite among vegetarians and vegans.
Through the years, many Middle Eastern countries have taken credit for creating falafel. However, the food was most certainly developed in Egypt. Despite this fact, falafel is closely identified as Israeli cuisine. In fact, a popular Israeli singer named Nisim Garame wrote a song about falafel being the country’s national dish.
Here are some of the lyrics:
Every child knows that macaroni is Italian.
The Austrians in Vienna have tasty schnitzel
and the French eat frogs …
And we have falafel, falafel, falafel…
Eventually, the popular Middle Eastern food found its way to other countries throughout the world, including the United States.
Even though falafel is deep-fried in oil, the food does contain some health benefits. Falafel is a good source of fiber and plant-based protein. The chickpeas in the dish help to manage blood sugar levels. To maximize the health benefits of falafel, it’s best not to deep-fry it. People can make a healthier version of falafel by baking it instead.
HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalFalafelDay
People around the world are encouraged to eat falafel for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Restaurants that serve Middle Eastern food have falafel specials. If you can’t find a nearby restaurant that serves falafel, you can try to make your own. Whether you eat it at a restaurant or make your own, be sure to spread awareness for this fun food day on social media with #FalafelDay.
INTERNATIONAL FALAFEL DAY HISTORY
In 2012, Ben Lang, food lover and entrepreneur, created International Falafel Day. Lang is the co-founder of Innovation Israel and is also credited with creating International Hummus Day.
