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What Sauce Goes with Falafel? (20 Tasty Sauces)

Falafel is a delicious and healthy Middle Eastern dish made of chickpeas or fava beans (see also these canned fava bean recipes) that are fried or baked into balls or patties.

They are often served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce, but there are so many other ways to enjoy them!

If you are looking for some inspiration on what sauces to serve with falafel, then you are in the right place.

In this post, I’m sharing 20 of the best sauces for falafel including tzatziki, hummus, harissa, and more.

What Sauce Goes with Falafel

What Sauce Goes with Falafel?

There are a few different types of sauces that go well with falafel. One popular choice is tahini sauce, which is made from ground sesame seeds and has a nutty flavor. Another option is yogurt sauce, which is cool and refreshing. You could also try a hot sauce, like harissa, for a spicy kick.

As you can see, there are so many great sauces that go with falafel, it’s hard to choose just one!

Here are 20 of my favorites:

1. Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/59320920082564829/

This creamy tangy lemon herb tahini sauce is the perfect addition to any falafel dish!

It’s simple to make and can be tailored to your liking with different herbs and spices.

I love to add a bit of za’atar to mine for an extra punch of flavor.

  • Za’atar: This Middle Eastern spice blend is perfect for adding a bit of depth and flavor to this sauce. Simply add a teaspoon or two to taste.
  • Garlic: Another great way to add flavor to this sauce is to add in some minced garlic. This will give the sauce a bit of a kick and really bring out the flavors of the herbs and spices.
  • Chili flakes: If you want a bit of heat in your sauce, then add in some chili flakes. This will give the sauce a bit of a spicy kick that is perfect for falafel. Simply add a pinch or two to taste.

2. Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/505247651957558542/

This zingy cilantro sauce is the perfect addition to any falafel dish.

It’s cool, creamy, and packed with flavor.

I love how the lime juice brightens up the flavors of the falafel, and the cilantro gives it a nice freshness.

Here are 3 ways to add extra flavor:

  • Add a pinch of cumin for a warm, earthy flavor.
  • Stir in some chopped fresh mint for a refreshing twist.
  • Mix in a spoonful of harissa paste for a spicy kick.

3. Greek Tzatziki

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/20758848273952589/

Greek tzatziki, a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce, is a perfect compliment to falafel.

The cooling yogurt base offsets the spices in the falafel, and the cucumbers add a fresh crunch.

I like to add a bit of garlic to my tzatziki for an extra zing.

Here are three easy ways to add even more flavor to your Greek tzatziki sauce:

  • Add fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley.
  • Stir in some diced sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.

4. Spicy Garlic Aioli

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/457256168426529215/

This aioli sauce is bursting with garlicky flavor and a little bit of heat.

It’s the perfect accompaniment to falafel, and I always make sure to have some on hand when I’m serving this dish.

The aioli really takes the falafel to the next level, and it’s always a hit with my guests.

How To Add Extra Flavor:

  • Add some chopped fresh herbs to the aioli for a bright, fresh flavor.
  • Mix in some smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or vinegar for a tart, tangy flavor.

5. Hummus

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/612067405617711881/

Hummus is usually my go-to sauce to serve with falafel, but this spicy garlic aioli is a fantastic alternative.

The sauce is rich and flavorful, with a nice kick of heat from the garlic.

It pairs perfectly with the crispy, savory falafel balls, and really elevates the dish to something special.

If you’re looking for a way to add some extra flavor to this sauce, I suggest trying some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

You could also add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to give it a bit more depth.

And if you want to make it even spicier, you can always add some more fresh garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

6. Spicy Harissa Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/360499145183481941/

If you prefer your food on the spicier side, then this harissa sauce is perfect for you.

I like to add it to falafel for an extra zing.

The harissa paste is made with a combination of chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices, and it really kicks up the flavor of the falafel.

To add even more flavor to this dish, try adding some fresh herbs or spices to the sauce.

I personally like to add a bit of cumin and smoked paprika to mine.

Other great options include:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Ground ginger
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Lemon juice

7. Red Pepper Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/656751558178661369/

How about adding some beautiful color to your plate with a red pepper sauce?

I have to say, I was really pleased with how this sauce turned out.

The acidity from the tomatoes really help to cut through the heaviness of the falafel, and the herbs and spices added a great depth of flavor.

To really give this sauce some zing, try adding some of the following herbs and spices:

  • Cumin
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Paprika
  • Ground coriander
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Garlic powder

These are just a few ideas to get you started.

Experiment and see what you come up with!

8. Green Tahini Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/186336503325595334/

Speaking of beautiful color combinations, green tahini sauce is a perfect topping for falafel.

The flavors meld together so well, and the texture is just perfect.

The sauce is creamy and rich, but not too heavy, and the falafel provide a nice crunch.

Also, the green tahini sauce is an excellent way to add some extra nutrition to your meal.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your green tahini sauce, there are a few things you can do.

  • First, try adding some chopped herbs, such as parsley, mint, or cilantro.
  • You could also add a pinch of spice, such as cumin or chili powder.
  • Finally, if you want a bit of sweetness, you could add a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice.

9. Beet Pesto

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/711287334901517271/

This unique, beautiful-colored sauce is so good!

The first time I had it was with falafel and I was in love.

I love the sweetness the beets add and how it compliments the spices in the falafel so well.

If you want to add a bit more depth of flavor to this sauce, try adding in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro.

You could also add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

For a bit of heat, add in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

10. Boom Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/322500023326143138/

Whether you use this sauce for onion rings, chips, or as a sandwich spread, it’s delicious.

I like to serve it with falafel because it really brings out the flavors of the falafel and makes for a great dipping sauce.

The sauce is slightly tangy with a bit of a kick, and the herbs and spices really elevate the flavors.

If you want to add a bit more flavor to this sauce, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

You could also add a pinch of ground cumin or smoked paprika for a bit of smokiness.

If you want a bit more heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

11. Honey Mustard Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/482448178849160361/

This homemade honey mustard sauce is the perfect addition to falafel!

It’s sweet, tangy, and has the perfect amount of spice.

I love to add a little bit of cumin and paprika to the sauce to give it a bit of an extra zing.

If you want to add some extra flavor to this sauce, try adding in some chopped herbs like parsley or mint.

You could also add in some extra spices like cumin or paprika.

If you want a bit of a creamier sauce, you could add in some yogurt or sour cream.

12. Homemade Chick-Fil-A Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/710091066265084908/

This is an easy copycat recipe made with ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

I love to serve this sauce with falafel because it is a great way to add flavor to the dish.

The herbs and spices in the sauce help to round out the flavors of the falafel and make it a more complete meal.

There are a few ways that you can add flavor to this sauce.

One way is to add more herbs and spices to the sauce.

This will help to give the sauce a more complex flavor.

Another way to add flavor to the sauce is to use other ingredients such as lemon juice or vinegar.

This will help to brighten up the flavor of the sauce.

13. Restaurant-Style Sweet and Sour Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/278730664428478414/

I don’t know about you, but I just love Asian cuisine.

I’m always looking for new and interesting flavors to add to my dishes, and one of my favorites is this restaurant-style sweet and sour sauce.

I love how it takes falafel to the next level with its zesty flavor and sweet undertones.

If you’re looking to add a bit more flavor to this sauce, there are a few things you can do.

First, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.

These will add a freshness that takes the sauce to the next level.

You could also add a bit of spice with some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Finally, if you want a bit more sweetness, you could add a tablespoon or two of honey.

14. Cajun Remoulade Dipping Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/824158800555847876/

Perfect for crab cakes, shrimp, or as a dipping sauce for falafel, this Cajun remoulade sauce is mayonnaise-based with a zesty blend of Cajun spices, diced onion, and diced celery.

I love serving this sauce with falafel because it really brings out the flavor of the dish and adds a bit of spice.

If you want to add more flavor to this sauce, try adding in some chopped herbs like parsley or chives.

You could also add in a bit of diced bell pepper or jalapeño for some extra heat.

15. Sweet Onion Sauce (Subway Copycat Recipe)

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/656751558175638928/

Sweet onion sauce has a strong onion flavor with a bit of sweetness and acidity.

It’s a great sauce to serve with falafel because it helps to balance out the richness of the falafel and add a bit of brightness.

I like to add a bit of chopped parsley to my sweet onion sauce to give it a bit of freshness.

If you want to add more depth of flavor to this sauce, you can try adding some chopped garlic, cumin, and paprika.

You can also add a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to help balance out the sweetness.

16. Yum Yum Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/180636635042842280/

This homemade yum yum dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment to falafel!

It’s light, flavorful, and slightly sweet – a perfect balance to the savory falafel.

I love to add a bit of spice to my yum yum sauce with some cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the level of spice to your taste.

How to Extra Add Flavor:

Herbs:

  • Cilantro
  • Parsley
  • Dill

Spices:

  • Cumin
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Garlic powder

Other ingredients:

  • Lemon juice
  • Honey
  • Plain yogurt
  1. Simply add all of the ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
  3. Serve with falafel and enjoy!

17. Japanese Steakhouse Ginger Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/724587027561210586/

This sauce is amazing for dipping falafel, meatballs, chicken, or fish.

I had it for the first time when I was out at a Japanese steakhouse and loved it so much that I asked for the recipe.

The ingredients are pretty simple and it’s easy to make at home.

To add some extra flavor to this sauce, try adding a few drops of sesame oil or soy sauce.

You could also add some chopped green onions or garlic.

If you want a bit of a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

18. Teriyaki Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/637400153527795840/

Teriyaki is a sweet and tangy sticky sauce, which is perfect for pairing with falafel.

The sauce is easy to make and can be used as a marinade, glaze or dipping sauce.

I like to use it as a marinade for chicken or tofu before grilling or stir-frying.

I also like to add a little bit of honey to the sauce to give it a bit more sweetness.

If you want to add some more flavor to your teriyaki sauce, try adding some fresh ginger, garlic, onion or cilantro.

You could also add some dried herbs such as oregano, basil or thyme.

For a bit of heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

If you want to make a sweeter sauce, you could add more honey or brown sugar.

19. Homemade Tartar Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/403001866666930112/

Tartar sauce is a thick, creamy sauce that is typically used as a condiment or dip.

It is made with mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, and spices.

I like to serve it with falafel because it provides a flavorful and slightly tangy contrast to the fried balls of chickpea batter.

If you want to add more flavor to your tartar sauce, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.

You could also add a dash of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or horseradish for an extra zing.

For a sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon or two of ketchup or sweet pickle relish.

20. Thai Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/307652218303296452/

I love Thai sweet chili sauce because it is both sweet and spicy, and it goes great with falafel.

The sweetness of the sauce helps to offset the spiciness of the falafel, and the sauce also has a bit of a tang to it that I enjoy.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your Thai sweet chili sauce, try adding in some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.

You could also add in some diced ginger or garlic for an extra zing.

If you want to make the sauce spicier, you could add in some crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce.

Finally, if you want to make the sauce sweeter, you could add in some honey or agave nectar.

FAQ

What Sauce Goes with Falafel Wrap?

When serving falafel wraps, it is common to use tahini sauce as a condiment. Other sauces that go well with falafel wraps include hummus, baba ghanoush, and yogurt sauce.

What Sauce Goes with Falafel and Rice?

Since falafel and rice are both quite bland on their own, they go well with a variety of sauces. If you want something light and refreshing, you can try a yogurt-based sauce or a tahini sauce.

For something more savory, you can try a hummus or a garlic sauce. And for something with a bit of sweetness, you can try a date syrup or a honey-based sauce.

What Sauce Goes on A Falafel Sandwich?

Depending on what kind of ingredients you put in your falafel sandwich, there are many different types of sauces that would go well with it. If you want a more traditional falafel sandwich, you can use tahini sauce or yogurt sauce.

If you want something with a bit more spice, you can try using hot sauce or harissa. And if you want a creamier sauce, you can opt for hummus or tzatziki.

What Dressing Goes with Falafel Salad?

When looking for a dressing for your falafel salad, you want something that is light and refreshing. A good option would be a lemon vinaigrette or a tahini dressing.

You could also go for a more traditional option like a yogurt-based sauce or tzatziki.

what dipping sauce goes with falafel

What Sauce Goes with Falafel? (20 Tasty Sauces)

Personally, I like to make sure my falafel is nice and crispy on the outside before adding any sauces.
Once you've got your perfect falafel, it's time to choose a sauce (or two, or three!).
This blog post will give you 20 different sauce ideas to top your falafel with, ranging from traditional tahini to more unique options like harissa mayo.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, you're sure to find a sauce in this blog post that will complement your falafel perfectly.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dip, Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 372 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce
  • Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce
  • Greek Tzatziki
  • Spicy Garlic Aioli
  • Hummus
  • Spicy Harissa Sauce
  • Red Pepper Sauce
  • Green Tahini Sauce
  • Beet Pesto
  • Boom Sauce
  • Honey Mustard Sauce
  • Homemade Chick-Fil-A Sauce
  • Restaurant-Style Sweet and Sour Sauce
  • Cajun Remoulade Dipping Sauce
  • Sweet Onion Sauce (Subway Copycat Recipe)
  • Yum Yum Sauce
  • Japanese Steakhouse Ginger Sauce
  • Teriyaki Sauce
  • Homemade Tartar Sauce
  • Thai Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pick any of the sauces or dips from this list to serve with your falafel.
  • Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe.
  • Enjoy in no time!
Keyword What Sauce Goes with Falafel