Cava Crispy Falafel Price, Nutrition and Allergen Information

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What Is Cava Crispy Falafel?

Cava’s Crispy Falafel is a deep-fried patty made primarily from ground chickpeas, combined with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and seasoned with spices such as cumin and coriander.

These ingredients are blended into a dough, shaped into small balls, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior.

Typically, these falafel balls are served in a warm pita bread, accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables, sauces, and optional toppings, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of Cava’s Crispy Falafel can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a detailed look at its nutritional profile:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	955 kcal
Total Fat	58g
Saturated Fat	6g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	2440mg
Total Carbohydrates	88g
Dietary Fiber	14g
Sugars	8g
Protein	22g

Ingredients Information

Cava’s Crispy Falafel is made with the following ingredients:

• Chickpeas: The primary base, providing protein and fiber.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro add flavor and freshness.
• Spices: Cumin, coriander, and garlic enhance the taste profile.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
• Flour: Helps bind the mixture together.
• Baking Powder: Provides lightness to the texture.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

Allergen Information

• Gluten: Present due to the use of flour.
• Cilantro: Included in the recipe; individuals with allergies should be cautious.

Note: Cava advises customers to consult their allergen and nutrition guide for detailed information and to inform restaurant staff of any food allergies.

Health Benefits

Despite being deep-fried, Cava’s Crispy Falafel offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Fiber: The fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Packed with Nutrients: Ingredients like parsley and cilantro provide vitamins and antioxidants.
• Cholesterol-Free: Being plant-based, falafel contains no cholesterol.

Tip: Pairing falafel with a side of vegetables or a whole-grain pita can enhance its nutritional value.

How to Make Cava-Inspired Crispy Falafel at Home

Craving falafel but prefer to cook at home? Here’s a simple recipe to create falafel similar to Cava’s:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2-3 tablespoons flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together.
2. Add flour and baking powder to the mixture and pulse until combined. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour to help it firm up.
4. Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with pita bread, tahini sauce, and your favorite toppings.

FAQs

What is falafel made of?

Falafel is primarily made from ground chickpeas, herbs, spices, and flour.

Is falafel gluten-free?

Traditional falafel contains gluten due to the use of flour. However, gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.

Is falafel healthy?

When prepared with minimal oil, falafel can be a healthy option, providing protein and fiber.

Can I eat falafel if I’m vegetarian?

Yes, falafel is a popular vegetarian dish.

Does falafel contain nuts?

Traditional falafel recipes do not contain nuts.

Can I freeze falafel?

Yes, falafel can be frozen before frying. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen when ready to eat.

What sauces go well with falafel?

Tahini sauce, tzatziki, and hummus are popular choices.

Is falafel high in fat?

Deep-fried falafel can be high in fat. Baking or air-frying can reduce the fat content.

Can I make falafel without chickpeas?

Yes, some recipes use fava beans or a combination of beans as a base.

Is falafel spicy?

Traditional falafel is not spicy, but you can add chili or hot sauce for heat.

How do I know when falafel is cooked?

Falafel is done when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

What toppings can I add to falafel?

Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled onions, and olives are common toppings.

Is falafel suitable for vegans?

Yes, falafel is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

Final Thoughts

Cava’s Crispy Falafel offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for many. While it’s a delicious option, it’s essential to be mindful of its nutritional content, especially the calorie and sodium levels.