Chef John's Falafel

Step 1
Place garbanzo beans into a large container and cover with several inches of cool water; let stand 12 to 24 hours. Drain.

Step 2
Blend garbanzo beans, onion, parsley, garlic, flour, lemon juice, salt, cumin, coriander, baking soda, and cayenne pepper together in a food processor, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary, until mixture is finely ground and holds together when pressed. Transfer garbanzo mixture to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until flavors blend, 1 to 2 hours.

Step 3
Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 4
Divide dough into 12 portions and roll each with moistened hands into a ball.

Step 5
Working in batches, cook falafel balls in hot oil until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.