Frying Falafel in Beirut Evening Market

Steam rises thick and white from a deep metal vat filled with shimmering oil, where golden-brown falafel balls sizzle on the surface. The vendor, wearing a worn apron stained with grease, stands in a narrow flea market lane in Bourj Hammoud, their hands moving quickly to turn the fritters. Reflected light from a nearby puddle casts cool blue tones across the scene, against the warm orange glow of the cooking fire beneath the vat. Smoke drifts lazily through the air, mixing with the humid evening atmosphere. Wooden crates and hanging spices line the narrow passage, their textures softened by the fading light. one drop of oil falls from a ladle, splashing into the hot liquid below.