Falafel
Dish
Falafel at a glance
- Category
- Dish
- Also called
- Chickpea Patties, Fava Bean Patties
- Commonly found in
- Middle Eastern Platters, Pita Sandwiches, Salad Toppings
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Falafel?
Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern food that is usually prepared by grinding chickpeas or fava beans and combining them with various herbs and spices. The mixture is then shaped into balls or patties and deep-fried or baked. It is commonly served in pita bread or as part of a mezze platter along with salads, sauces, and pickled vegetables. While falafel is a popular vegetarian and vegan option, it is often high in FODMAPs, which can cause digestive issues for some individuals.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Falafel typically contains chickpeas, onions and/or garlic, making it high FODMAP at a normal serving size.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Falafel
People on a low FODMAP diet may avoid falafel because it typically contains high FODMAP ingredients like chickpeas and onions or garlic. These ingredients can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, in individuals sensitive to FODMAPs. To enjoy falafel while minimizing FODMAP intake, one could look for recipes that use low FODMAP ingredients or consume it in smaller quantities.
Potential Reactions
- Bloating
- Gas
- Abdominal Pain
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.
Foods That Commonly Contain Falafel
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Spoonful reviews ingredients
- Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
- Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
- Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
- Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
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