Imagine biting into a warm, crispy Baked Falafel that bursts with flavor and vibrant spices. The golden exterior gives way to a fluffy interior that practically dances on your taste buds. If that doesn’t get your culinary heart racing, I don’t know what will. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you salivating before they even hit the table!
This isn’t just any recipe—this is a spectacular journey into the world of legumes! Growing up, my family often indulged in Middle Eastern cuisine, and nothing could beat the joy of homemade falafels. They’re perfect for cozy evenings or lively gatherings. So buckle up; we’re about to embark on a delicious adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked falafels are easy to prepare and packed with flavor
- They are visually appealing with their golden crust and vibrant herbs
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining friends at dinner parties
- Enjoy them as a snack or as part of a main course with various dips
I remember the first time I made Baked Falafel; my friends were skeptically eyeing my chickpea balls as if they were UFOs! But once they tasted them, their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Chickpeas: Use two cans of chickpeas for convenience; drain and rinse well for optimal texture.
- Fresh Parsley: Grab a bunch of fresh parsley; it adds brightness and color to your falafels.
- Fresh Cilantro: Don’t skip this herb—it gives your baked falafels an authentic flavor profile.
- Garlic Cloves: Use 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic; you can never have too much garlic!
- Ground Cumin: This spice is essential for that earthy warmth; use about 1 teaspoon for full flavor.
- Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon will help give your falafels some lift without deep frying!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps crisp them up in the oven while enhancing flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens every bite—don’t hold back!
- Tahini Sauce (for serving): A must-have condiment that pairs perfectly with these little beauties.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later on—thank me later!
Blend It Up: In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic cloves, cumin, baking powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until you achieve a coarse mixture resembling cookie dough.
Add Texture: Transfer your mixture into a bowl and fold in panko breadcrumbs gently until fully incorporated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch.
Scoop & Shape: Use your hands (or an ice cream scoop) to form small balls or patties from the mixture—aim for golf-ball size! Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle & Bake: Lightly drizzle olive oil over each ball to boost crispiness. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they turn a golden brown.
Savor & Serve: Once you pull those beauties out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving them up with tahini sauce or nestled in pita bread alongside fresh veggies.
Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments from family and friends!
Baked Falafel is not just a dish; it’s an experience bursting with bold flavors that’ll make you feel like you’ve traveled around the world without even leaving your kitchen.
You Must Know
- Baked falafel offers a delicious, healthier twist on traditional fried versions
- The vibrant herbs and spices create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen
- Serve the falafel with fresh veggies and tahini sauce for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blending chickpeas and spices until smooth, then shape into balls. Bake at 375°F until golden brown, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different beans like black or kidney beans for unique flavors. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results, ensuring they regain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve optimal texture, don’t overprocess the chickpeas; leave some texture for crunch
- Make sure to chill the falafel mixture before shaping to help them hold together
- Baking on parchment paper guarantees easy cleanup while preventing sticking
Making baked falafel always brings back memories of family dinners; everyone loves grabbing them fresh from the oven.
FAQ
Can I freeze baked falafel?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I serve with baked falafel?
Try serving with pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad loaded with veggies.
How do I know when my falafel is done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and firm texture; a crispy exterior means they’re ready!
Baked Falafel
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Falafel is a delightful, crispy snack made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Perfectly baked for a healthier twist, it’s great in pita or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, blend chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, baking powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until coarse.
- Transfer to a bowl and fold in panko breadcrumbs gently.
- Form small balls (about golf-ball size) and place them on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over each ball for added crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a twist on flavor, substitute chickpeas with black beans or kidney beans.
- Chill the falafel mixture before shaping to help them hold together better.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 falafel ball (40g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg