The main ingredient found in the popular Mediterranean dish falafel is chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. These legumes are ground into a paste and mixed with various spices, herbs, and sometimes onions and garlic before being shaped into balls or patties. The mixture is then deep-fried, resulting in a crispy outer layer with a soft interior. While chickpeas are the traditional base for falafel, some variations use fava beans or a combination of both. Falafel is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is often served in pita bread with toppings like tahini, vegetables, and pickles, making it a beloved vegetarian option.