 Falafel grew to become a common form of street food or fast food in the Middle East . The croquettes are regularly eaten as part of meze . During Ramadan , falafel balls are sometimes eaten as part of the iftar , the meal that breaks the daily fast after sunset . Falafel became so popular that McDonald 's for a time served a " McFalafel " in some countries . Falafel is still popular with the Copts , who cook large volumes during religious holidays . Debates over the origin of falafel have sometimes devolved into political discussions about the relationship between Arabs and Israelis . In modern times , falafel has been considered a national dish of Egypt , Palestine , and of Israel . Resentment exists amongst many Palestinians for what they see as the appropriation of their dish by Israelis . Additionally , the Lebanese Industrialists ' Association has raised assertions of copyright infringement against Israel concerning falafel . 
