Falafel Falafel Falafel or felafel (, ; , , dialectal: ) is a deep-fried ball, doughnut, or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. Falafel is a Levantine and Egyptian dish that most likely originated in Egypt. It is commonly served in a pita, which acts as a pocket, or wrapped in a flatbread known as taboon; "falafel" also frequently refers to a wrapped sandwich that is prepared in this way. The falafel balls are laid over a bed of salads, pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and drizzled with tahini-based sauces. Falafel balls may also be eaten alone as a
Falafel are predominantly middle-class Germans. Some restaurants associated with the thriving Jewish and Israeli community in Berlin also serve falafel. Falafel restaurants sometimes feature Middle-Eastern decor meant to give an impression of exotic authenticity. However, the food has been adapted. For example, a unique sweet mango sauce is used in place of the sour-salty "amba" found in the Middle East, and take-away sandwiches in pita bread typically contain assorted vegetables, pickles, and sauces, in contrast to simpler Middle-Eastern presentations. Falafel has become popular among vegetarians and vegans, as an alternative to meat-based street foods, and is now sold in packaged mixes