Is Falafel Healthy? A Look at Calories, Protein, and Nutritional Value

There’s a sound that stops a conversation mid-sentence: the crisp, shattering crunch of a perfectly fried falafel. At that moment, nothing else matters. Inside the golden shell is a center that’s flecked with herbs and has a soft, almost velvety texture. Falafels have become a staple for Brooklynites looking for a meal that’s light and healthy yet filling and satisfying.

A hand holds a crispy, golden-brown fried ball over a plate of similar balls garnished with herbs.
A gloved hand holds a bowl of falafel, vegetables, and shredded carrots.

What’s Inside the Crisp Shell?

Before we get to falafel’s nutritional value, let’s take a look at the ingredients.

Falafel ingredients:

  • Chickpeas that have been soaked overnight
  • Fresh parsley and cilantro
  • Crushed garlic and cumin

These simple ingredients are ground together and shaped by hand before they hit the hot oil. That means there is healthy plant-based protein in falafel. The chickpeas contain fiber that reaches the body steadily, rather than a heavy weight. When you pair it with the crunch of a salad, the tang of pickled turnips, and a drizzle of cool tahini, you’re eating a meal that will give you energy.

More Than 
Just a Healthy Option

Does falafel have protein? Yes, and it is healthy. Especially when it is air-fried, as an alternative to deep frying.

When they are prepared this way, falafels let you eat well and keep you satisfied for long without compromises.

Our Falafel is a Family Tradition

At Shawarma Mia, falafel is freshly made every day by a father and son duo who built their lives based on Mediterranean cuisine. With decades of experience rooted in recipes that have fed generations, Shawarma Mia is a neighborhood favorite that also caters to modern lifestyles. We serve falafel in a bowl, pita, wrap, or sub, along with your choice of sauces and toppings from our menu to finish it off.

Build Your Falafel Meal

What to order 

Why to order

What to expect

Mains

Base of the meal

Choose between an artisan pita, wholewheat wrap, freshly baked sub, or grain-based bowl 

Toppings

Add-ons

Vegetables like baba ganush, eggplant matbucha, pickled onions, tomato, red cabbage, Turkish peppers, spicy ezme, or pickles, olives, and creamy hummus

Sauces

Finishing touches

Cooling tzatziki sauce, spicy red harissa hot sauce, light lemon juice & olive oil, or rich tahini sauce

Shawarma Mia Falafel

From grabbing a quick lunch to enjoying a laid-back dinner, you can enjoy falafel guilt-free, your way. Start with a base of greens or rice, add the warm falafel balls, and dress it with healthy toppings like smoked baba ganoush, spicy ezme, and lemony tahini. Each spoonful changes the flavor, letting you chase the taste you’re craving.
A bowl of falafel balls with hummus, pickles, and diced vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of eating falafel?

Falafel contains a combination of fiber, plant-based protein, and complex carbohydrates. It’s a healthy, filling meal that supports energy levels. When paired with salads and lighter sauces, it becomes a balanced Mediterranean-style meal.

Because it is often deep-fried, this can increase the calories in falafel. Choosing a balanced plate with vegetables and grains keeps it lighter, along with lower-calorie sauces. At Shawarma Mia, you can customize your meal to suit your preferences. Contact us to find out more.

Falafel can be part of a weight-conscious diet when portion sizes, toppings, and cooking methods are considered. When served in a bowl with greens and vegetables, falafels support balanced eating.

Shawarma Mia logo
Shawn Isikli / Digital Strategy

Shawn leads ops & digital strategy – making sure every wrap, bowl, & plate delivers what matters: daily prep, classic spice blends, & flavors that feel like home.

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Where to Find Us

You’ll find your go-to for the best shawarma in Brooklyn at 67 Sixth Avenue. We’re open daily on Sundays to Wednesdays from 11 AM to 11 PM, and Thursdays to Saturdays from 11 AM – 12 AM.

Operating Hours:
Sun — Wed: 11 AM — 11 PM
Thur — Sat: 11 AM — 12 AM

Need directions? Find them below:

Shawarma Mia Turkish Grill storefront with orange outdoor seating and customers ordering at the counter
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