The Story of Falafel: From Egypt to Aladdin Cafe in Casselberry

Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, falafel is one of the Middle East’s most beloved foods. It can be enjoyed as a snack, served on a platter, or tucked into warm pita with fresh vegetables and creamy tahini sauce.

But where did falafel begin, and why does it taste different from one country to another?

Where was falafel created?

The precise origin of falafel is still debated. However, many food historians believe that the earliest form of the dish was developed in Egypt.

In Egypt, it is commonly called ta’amiya or ta‘meya and is traditionally prepared with fava beans. Claims that falafel dates to ancient Pharaonic Egypt are popular, but there is no strong historical evidence supporting them. The earliest documented versions appear to be considerably more recent. History Today’s examination of falafel’s origins also concludes that it was probably developed in Egypt, although exactly when and by whom remains uncertain.

From Egypt, the food traveled throughout the Middle East. Every community added its own ingredients, spices and serving traditions.

What is falafel called in different countries?

RegionCommon nameCommon ingredientsEgypt and SudanTa’amiya or ta‘meyaPrimarily fava beans with herbs and spicesPalestine, Lebanon and SyriaFalafelCommonly chickpeas, sometimes mixed with fava beansJordanFalafelChickpeas or a combination of chickpeas and fava beansIraqFalafelUsually chickpeas, served with regional sauces and vegetablesYemenFalafelChickpeas or fava beans, often enjoyed with a spicy sauceUnited StatesFalafelMost commonly chickpeas, herbs, garlic and spices

Recipes differ from family to family, so there is no single formula followed everywhere. Some falafel is round, while Egyptian ta’amiya is frequently shaped like a flatter patty. Seasonings can include parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin and coriander.

Whatever its regional form, good falafel should have a freshly fried, crisp exterior and a tender, aromatic center.

How we make falafel at Aladdin Cafe

At Aladdin Cafe, our falafel combines ground fava beans and chickpeas with spices and herbs. It is fried and served with our creamy tahini sauce. This combination brings together elements commonly found in both Egyptian and Levantine falafel traditions.

Enjoy it:

• As a falafel appetizer with tahini

• In fresh pita with crisp vegetables

• As a wrap

• On a vegetarian platter with other Middle Eastern favorites

Our current menu describes the falafel sandwich as crispy falafel tucked into fresh pita with vegetables and tahini sauce. You can see our vegetarian sandwiches and platters or order online for pickup or delivery.

What our customers say

Our guests often describe Aladdin Cafe’s food as fresh, flavorful and authentic. One five-star customer described our falafel simply as:

“The best I ever had.”

Customers also appreciate our large selection of clearly labeled vegetarian dishes, generous portions and welcoming service. We are grateful whenever someone visits, shares a meal with us or tells a friend about their experience.

A vegetarian favorite with a long history

Falafel has remained popular for good reason. It is flavorful, filling and naturally meat-free. It can be a quick lunch, part of a large family meal or one item on a colorful Middle Eastern mezze platter.

Today, falafel is enjoyed throughout the world—but every bite still carries a connection to the communities that prepared, shared and adapted it across generations.

Taste falafel in Casselberry

We invite you to visit Aladdin Cafe and experience our falafel for yourself.

Aladdin Cafe
1015 State Road 436, Suite 141
Casselberry, Florida 32707
Phone: 407-331-0488

Come enjoy it in a pita, wrap or platter—and let us know how you would describe your first bite!