Crispy Za'atar Falafel Protein Flatbreads with Creamy Sumac Yogurt

These viral falafel flatbreads combine crispy za'atar-spiced chickpea patties with creamy sumac yogurt on soft flatbreads for maximum protein payoff. Using canned chickpeas and pantry spices makes this meal incredibly quick while delivering authentic Middle Eastern flavors. The crunchy texture against the cool yogurt sauce creates the perfect high-protein lunch or dinner.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds
• 2 tablespoons za'atar seasoning
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 whole wheat pita or naan flatbreads
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon sumac
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup pickled red onions
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, hemp seeds, 1 tablespoon za'atar, baking powder, garlic, and parsley. Pulse until coarsely ground but not pureed.
2. Transfer mixture to bowl and fold in egg white until mixture holds together when pressed. Form into 8 small patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook falafel patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
4. While falafel cooks, whisk together Greek yogurt, sumac, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl.
5. Toast flatbreads in a dry skillet or toaster until warm and slightly crispy.
6. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of sumac yogurt sauce evenly over each flatbread.
7. Place 2 crispy falafel patties on each flatbread, slightly overlapping.
8. Top with shredded red cabbage, pickled red onions, and fresh mint leaves.
9. Drizzle with remaining sumac yogurt sauce and sprinkle with remaining za'atar seasoning.
10. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Chef's Note

For extra crispy falafel, don't overcrowd the skillet and let them develop a golden crust before flipping. The baking powder helps create a lighter texture while the hemp seeds add protein and binding power.

Make-Ahead Tips

Falafel mixture can be prepared 1 day ahead and stored covered in refrigerator. Cook just before serving. Sumac yogurt sauce keeps for 3-4 days refrigerated.

Substitutions

Za'atar can be replaced with equal parts dried thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds. Hemp seeds can substitute with ground flaxseed. Red cabbage can use chopped romaine lettuce.