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Easy Falafel Spice Mix

By Samira Kazan

published January 29, 2025

Learn how to make an authentic falafel spice mix with five simple pantry-staple spices. This blend is perfect for falafel, popcorn, or even as a marinade.

This falafel spice blend recipe combines five spices (only four of which are compulsory!) that are often used in Middle Eastern cuisine. The result is something you can shake up and use immediately when needed; no need to grab all five jars every single time. This is the ultimate seasoning for my authentic falafel recipe and baked falafel version.

Plus, if you buy spices in bulk as I do, then this can be incredibly cost-effective and takes just a minute to prepare – with just five ingredients.

Ingredients
How to make falafel spice mix
Ways to use falafel seasoning
More Lebanese spice mixes
Easy Falafel Spice Mix Recipe

falafel spice mix in a small spoon next to parsley and onion - 3

Ingredients

The only thing you need to know when making this falafel spice mix is the ingredients and their ratios.

The perfect ratio is:

1 part Coriander powder
1/2 part Cumin powder
1/4 part Black pepper
1/4 part Red chili powder (or cayenne pepper)
1/4 part Cinnamon (optional)

Example Measurements:

For 1 tablespoon of coriander powder, use: 1/2 tablespoon cumin powder 1/4 tablespoon black pepper 1/4 tablespoon red chili powder 1/4 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)

See the printable recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to make falafel spice mix

Measure the spices and, if wanted, make a big batch. You can easily double or triple the amounts.

Then, mix all the spices in a small bowl and transfer them to an airtight container, like a spice jar.

Mixing falafel spices in a small bowl. - 4

Alternatively, as you are measuring the spices, pour them directly into the jar. Then, close the lid and shake it well to mix the spices.

Finally, label the container and place it in a cool, dark location (kitchen pantry or cupboard). The falafel seasoning is as fresh as the individual spices, and you should be able to keep it for 6+ months. However, I recommend using it within 3-4 months for the best flavor.

Ways to use falafel seasoning

As I mentioned above, this homemade falafel spice blend is best used to make homemade falafel recipes. So, here are my favorite ones:

Authentic falafel recipe – the traditional fried version,
Easy baked falafel – the oven-baked version,
Rainbow falafel – the fun, colorful version.

However, this spice blend is also great with many other meals and even snacks like popcorn. You can use it to marinate homemade tofu and other proteins or sprinkle some into grains along with some butter, etc.

falafel spice mix added to falafel base in a bowl - 5

More Lebanese spice mixes

A small wooden spoon dipped in a glass jar with Lebanese 7 spice mix. - 6

A small wooden spoon dipped in a glass jar with Lebanese 7 spice mix. - 7

A small jar with shawarma seasoning and a small wooden spoon dipped into it. - 10

A small jar with shawarma seasoning and a small wooden spoon dipped into it. - 11

Equipment

Magnetic Spice Tins

Ingredients1x2x3x

▢ 1 Tbsp ground coriander
▢ 1/2 Tbsp ground cumin
▢ 1/2 tsp black pepper
▢ 1/2 tsp red chili powder or cayenne pepper
▢ 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon powder optional

Instructions

Measure out your ingredients into a bowl and combine them. Make a double or triple batch if wanted.
Decant the mix into a spice jar. Label and keep in a kitchen cupboard or your pantry. Shake the jar before use, and use the falafel spices as needed.

Notes

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.