 Falafel ( / fəˈlɑːfəl / ; Arabic : فلافل , [ fæˈlæːfɪl ] , dialectal : [ fæˈlæːfel ] ) is a deep @-@ fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas , fava beans , or both . Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern food , 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 topped with salads , pickled vegetables , hot sauce , and drizzled with tahini @-@ based sauces . Falafel balls may also be eaten alone as a snack or served as part of a meze tray ( assortment of appetizers ) . 
