Falafel is one of those dishes that feels like a little bite of magic. It’s crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, and bursting with fresh herbs and spices. This Middle Eastern classic has become a beloved street food worldwide, and for good reason. It’s delicious, filling, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re a fan of traditional frying or looking for healthier alternatives like baking or air frying, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the Best Crispy Falafel from scratch.
I still remember the first time I had falafel from a tiny, family-owned restaurant. The crunchy exterior gave way to a creamy, herb-packed center that was both comforting and exciting. It was served with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce. Ever since that first bite, I was hooked. And when I learned how easy it was to make at home, it quickly became a regular part of my cooking rotation.
Best Crispy Falafel is not only incredibly tasty but also versatile. You can serve it in wraps, on salads, or as a stand-alone snack with your favorite dips. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free (if you use gluten-free bread or serve it as a salad), and packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ready to make the most mouthwatering falafel you’ve ever had? Let’s dive in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve never tried making Best Crispy Falafel at home, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is straightforward, requires simple ingredients, and offers a ton of flexibility to suit your taste preferences. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
It’s Easier Than You Think: While falafel might seem like a dish that requires a lot of skill, it’s actually incredibly simple to make. The most important step is properly soaking the chickpeas – the rest is just a matter of blending and cooking.
Packed with Flavor: Fresh parsley, garlic, cumin, coriander, and lemon juice come together to create a rich, earthy, and slightly tangy flavor that’s completely addictive.
Crispy Outside, Soft Inside: Achieving that perfect texture is all about technique. Frying delivers the crispiest results, but if you prefer a lighter option, baking or air frying still gives you a delicious result.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze the extras! Falafel freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it anytime without all the prep work.
Super Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add more cayenne pepper. Prefer a milder taste? Skip the heat. You can even swap parsley for cilantro or use a blend of both to suit your taste.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: As long as you serve it with gluten-free bread or as part of a salad, this recipe works for just about anyone.
This Best Crispy Falafel recipe is like a flavor bomb packed with vibrant herbs, spices, and just the right amount of heat. Every bite feels like a celebration of bold, earthy flavors and satisfying textures. And the best part? You can enjoy it however you like – in wraps, over salads, or just as a snack dipped in your favorite sauce.
Health Benefits
Best Crispy Falafel is not just a delicious treat; it’s also surprisingly healthy. Thanks to its wholesome ingredients, falafel offers a number of health benefits that make it a guilt-free addition to your diet.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which helps in muscle building and repair. For vegetarians and vegans, falafel is a great way to boost protein intake.
High in Fiber: Chickpeas are loaded with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This makes falafel a satisfying option for those looking to manage their weight.
Nutrient-Dense: Along with protein and fiber, chickpeas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. The fresh herbs add even more nutrients, like vitamins A, C, and K.
Heart-Healthy: The combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices provides anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce cholesterol levels, promoting overall heart health.
Antioxidant-Rich: Fresh parsley or cilantro, along with garlic and lemon juice, brings in a wealth of antioxidants that support a healthy immune system and help protect your cells from damage.
Low in Calories (If Baked or Air-Fried): While traditional frying can increase calorie content, baking or air frying reduces the amount of oil needed, making falafel a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake.
Gluten-Free and Vegan: This recipe is naturally free of gluten and animal products, making it suitable for most dietary needs. Just ensure any bread or dips you serve with it are also gluten-free if required.
Customizable for Different Diets: Whether you’re trying to lower your fat intake or increase your protein consumption, falafel is versatile enough to fit into various diets.
The health benefits of falafel make it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal plans. Plus, it’s so tasty that you’ll hardly feel like you’re eating something healthy at all.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
One of the things I love most about making Best Crispy Falafel is how easily you can scale it to fit your needs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is easy to adjust.
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including soaking and chilling time)
Active Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes (if baking or air frying) / 6–8 minutes (if frying)
Servings: Makes about 20–24 falafel balls (Serves 4–6)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 falafel balls):
Calories: 280
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 2g
Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on serving size and cooking method. Frying will increase the fat content, while baking or air frying will reduce it.
Now that you’ve got a sense of why this recipe is so amazing and how healthy it can be, let’s jump into the ingredients you’ll need to make it happen.
Ingredients List
To make this delicious Best Crispy Falafel, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Falafel:
- 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, NOT cooked) – Soaking dried chickpeas is essential for getting that perfect texture. Canned chickpeas are too soft and will not work well.
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped – Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic – Provides depth of flavor and a little zing.
- 1 cup fresh parsley (or cilantro, or a mix of both) – This is what gives falafel its beautiful green color and fresh taste.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander – Offers a slightly citrusy, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps give the falafel a light, fluffy interior.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For those who love a bit of heat.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and adds freshness.
- Oil for frying (or baking/air frying for a healthier option) – Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil for frying.
For Serving (Optional):
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Chopped veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
- Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or cilantro)
- Tzatziki, hummus, or tahini sauce (for dipping)
Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s start making this incredible falafel from scratch.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Best Crispy Falafel is all about getting the texture and flavor just right. The process itself is straightforward, but following each step properly will help you achieve the best results. Let’s break down the process:
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
The most important step to making falafel is starting with dried chickpeas, not canned. The dried chickpeas provide the necessary texture that holds the mixture together during frying or baking.
- Soak the Chickpeas:
- Place 1 1/2 cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water.
- The chickpeas will expand significantly, so make sure there’s at least 3–4 inches of water above them.
- Let them soak for 12–24 hours. For best results, soak them overnight.
- Drain and Rinse:
- Once soaked, drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
- Pat them dry with a clean towel to remove any excess moisture.
Tip: The chickpeas should be tender enough to break apart when you press them between your fingers but still firm, not mushy.
2. Make the Falafel Mixture
This is where all the magic happens. Fresh herbs and spices come together to form the most aromatic and flavorful mixture.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a food processor, add the soaked and drained chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley (or cilantro, or a combination of both), cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Process the Mixture:
- Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until you achieve a coarse, grainy texture.
- The mixture should be well-combined but not pureed. It should hold together when pressed but still have some texture.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Add Baking Powder:
- Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder over the mixture and mix well. This will help make the falafel light and fluffy when cooked.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape and preventing it from falling apart during cooking.
Tip: If your mixture feels too wet, you can add a tablespoon or two of flour (regular, chickpea, or gluten-free) to help bind it.
3. Shape the Falafel
Now it’s time to form your Best Crispy Falafel balls or patties.
- Form the Falafel:
- Use your hands or a cookie scoop to form small balls or patties from the mixture.
- Each piece should be about the size of a golf ball. Flatten slightly if making patties.
- Place on a Tray:
- Arrange the shaped falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Tip: Keep your hands slightly wet while forming the balls to prevent the mixture from sticking.
4. Cook the Falafel
Here’s where you get to choose your preferred cooking method. Each has its own benefits, so pick the one that works best for you.
Frying (Best Texture):
- Heat Oil:
- Pour oil into a deep skillet or frying pan until it’s about 1 inch deep.
- Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Falafel:
- Gently place the falafel balls or patties into the hot oil.
- Fry them for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent.
Baking (Healthier Option):
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil.
- Bake the Falafel:
- Arrange the falafel on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush or spray the tops of the falafel with oil to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Tip: Baking will result in a slightly drier texture than frying, but the flavor is still fantastic.
Air-Frying (Healthiest Option):
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air-Fry the Falafel:
- Place the falafel balls in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Tip: Air-fried falafel offers a crispy exterior with significantly less oil, making it a great option for those looking to cut back on calories and fat.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Once your Best Crispy Falafel is cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
- Serve the falafel hot, with warm pita bread or flatbread.
- Add a variety of fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro.
- Serve with your favorite dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.
And there you have it – perfect, crispy, and delicious homemade falafel. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air frying, the result is always satisfying and flavorful.
But we’re not done yet! Let’s talk about how to serve and pair your falafel to make it a complete, unforgettable meal.
How to Serve these Best Crispy Falafel
Best Crispy Falafel is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light snack, there’s a way to enjoy it that suits your mood. Here are some of the best ways to serve falafel:
1. In Pita Bread or Wraps (Traditional Style):
- Stuff warm pita bread or flatbread with falafel balls or patties.
- Add fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
- Drizzle with creamy sauces like tahini, hummus, or tzatziki.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Over Salads (Light & Healthy):
- Serve Best Crispy Falafel over a bed of mixed greens, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives.
- Add a drizzle of tahini dressing or a simple lemon-olive oil vinaigrette.
- Top with roasted veggies for an extra dose of nutrients.
3. As an Appetizer or Snack (Great for Parties):
- Arrange falafel on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces.
- Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
- Pair with a selection of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
4. Falafel Bowls (Nourishing & Filling):
- Layer rice, quinoa, or couscous with falafel, fresh veggies, hummus, and olives.
- Top with a dollop of your favorite sauce and sprinkle with herbs.
- Add roasted vegetables or avocado slices for extra texture and richness.
5. In Sandwiches (Quick & Tasty):
- Use Best Crispy Falafel as a filling for sandwiches with thick bread or baguettes.
- Add veggies, sauces, and even some melted cheese if you like.
6. With Middle Eastern Sides (Authentic Experience):
- Serve alongside dishes like tabbouleh, baba ganoush, or fattoush salad.
- Pair with grilled vegetables and fresh bread for a complete meal.
Falafel is one of those foods that feels right at home in a variety of settings. Whether you want something light or hearty, simple or elaborate, it fits the bill perfectly. Now, let’s talk about what you can pair with your delicious falafel to make it even more satisfying.
Pairing Suggestions
The beauty of falafel is that it pairs well with a wide range of dishes, sauces, and beverages. To create a well-rounded and satisfying meal, here are some of the best pairing options:
1. Sauces & Dips (Essential Pairings):
- Tahini Sauce: The most classic pairing, tahini sauce is creamy, nutty, and slightly tangy. Simply mix tahini paste with lemon juice, garlic, water, and a pinch of salt.
- Hummus: A smooth, rich dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Its creamy texture complements the crispy falafel perfectly.
- Tzatziki: A yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It adds a refreshing, cooling element to the meal.
- Garlic Sauce: Creamy and intensely garlicky, this sauce is a fantastic addition for those who love bold flavors.
- Spicy Harissa Sauce: If you enjoy a little heat, try serving your falafel with harissa, a North African chili paste that adds a punch of spice.
2. Sides (To Make It a Complete Meal):
- Fattoush Salad: A refreshing salad made with crispy pita bread, fresh veggies, and a zesty sumac dressing.
- Tabbouleh: A parsley-based salad with bulgur, tomatoes, onions, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. Its freshness is a perfect contrast to the hearty falafel.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are all excellent choices.
- Pickled Vegetables: Middle Eastern-style pickles, including pickled turnips and cucumbers, offer a tangy contrast to the rich falafel.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices, nuts, and sometimes dried fruits can turn your falafel dish into a more filling meal.
3. Drinks (To Refresh Your Palate):
- Mint Lemonade: The cool, citrusy flavor of fresh lemonade with mint is a delightful way to cleanse your palate.
- Iced Mint Tea: Light, refreshing, and perfect if you’re serving falafel on a hot day.
- Cucumber Water: Simply infuse water with slices of cucumber for a refreshing, hydrating beverage.
Pairing falafel with the right sides and sauces enhances its flavor and turns a simple dish into a truly satisfying feast. Now, let’s make sure you know how to store, freeze, and reheat your falafel so you can enjoy it anytime.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about homemade falafel is that it stores beautifully. Whether you want to keep leftovers for later or prepare a big batch for future meals, here’s how to do it:
Storing in the Refrigerator:
- Place cooked falafel in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes.
Freezing Falafel (Best for Long-Term Storage):
- Uncooked Falafel:
- Shape the falafel mixture into balls or patties.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours).
- Transfer the frozen falafel to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Store for up to 3 months.
- To cook, fry or bake directly from frozen – no need to thaw.
- Cooked Falafel:
- Allow the falafel to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat by baking at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes or air frying for 8–10 minutes.
Tips for Best Reheating Results:
- Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the falafel soggy.
- Reheating in the oven or air fryer helps restore the crispiness.
Now that you know how to make, serve, pair, and store your falafel, let’s ensure you avoid some of the common mistakes people make when preparing this delicious dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though falafel is a fairly straightforward dish to make, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor, texture, or overall success of your recipe. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Using Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried:
Canned chickpeas are too soft and contain too much moisture, which will result in falafel that falls apart during frying or baking. Always use dried chickpeas that have been soaked but not cooked.
2. Not Soaking the Chickpeas Long Enough:
Chickpeas need to be soaked for at least 12 hours to soften properly. If you rush this step, the mixture will be too dry, and the falafel will be dense and crumbly. If you’re in a pinch, a minimum of 8 hours might work, but overnight is best.
3. Overprocessing the Mixture:
While it’s tempting to blend everything until smooth, you should aim for a coarse texture. Overprocessing creates a paste-like consistency that will result in dense falafel without the desired fluffy interior. Pulse the mixture in short bursts rather than running the food processor continuously.
4. Not Chilling the Mixture:
Skipping the chilling step can make the falafel mixture too loose to hold its shape. Allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour helps firm up the mixture and enhances the flavor.
5. Adding Too Much Flour or Liquid:
If the mixture feels too wet, it can be tempting to add a lot of flour to bind it. However, this can lead to dry, heavy falafel. Instead, try adjusting the texture by chilling the mixture or gently pressing out any excess moisture.
6. Frying at the Wrong Temperature:
If the oil is too hot, the falafel will brown quickly on the outside but remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, the falafel will absorb oil and become greasy. Aim for an oil temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
7. Crowding the Pan:
Frying too many falafel balls at once will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, greasy falafel. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and perfect crispiness.
8. Not Flipping When Baking:
If you’re baking the falafel, make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides get evenly browned and crispy.
9. Not Seasoning Properly:
Since chickpeas themselves are quite mild, it’s essential to season the mixture well. Don’t be afraid to add a generous amount of salt, spices, and herbs. Taste the raw mixture before adding the baking powder to adjust the seasoning.
10. Reheating in the Microwave:
Avoid reheating falafel in the microwave, as it will make them soggy and lose their signature crispiness. Instead, use an oven or air fryer to restore their texture.
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your falafel comes out perfectly every time. Now, let’s talk about some pro tips to make your falafel-making experience even better.
Pro Tips
These tips will help you take your falafel game to the next level. Whether you’re looking for better flavor, texture, or convenience, these pro tips have got you covered.
1. Always Drain the Chickpeas Well:
After soaking, make sure to thoroughly drain and even pat the chickpeas dry with a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture will make the mixture too loose and difficult to work with.
2. Adjust the Spices to Your Taste:
Don’t be afraid to customize your falafel by experimenting with spices. Want more warmth? Add extra cumin. Prefer a spicy kick? Increase the cayenne pepper or add finely chopped fresh chilies.
3. Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor:
Parsley and cilantro are the traditional choices, but feel free to mix in fresh dill, mint, or even basil for a different twist. Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
4. Make a Big Batch and Freeze It:
If you’re going to go through the effort of making falafel, why not make extra? You can easily freeze both the raw mixture and cooked falafel. This makes it super convenient for quick meals throughout the week.
5. Use a Food Processor – Not a Blender:
A blender will often overprocess the mixture, making it too smooth. A food processor allows you to pulse the mixture until it reaches the desired coarse texture.
6. Lightly Oil Your Hands When Shaping:
If the mixture is sticking to your hands while shaping, try lightly oiling your palms. This makes forming the falafel balls or patties much easier.
7. Try Baking Powder for Extra Fluffiness:
Adding baking powder to the mixture before shaping helps create a lighter, fluffier texture, especially if you’re baking or air frying the falafel.
8. Experiment with Different Cooking Methods:
Each cooking method gives you a slightly different texture. Frying gives you the crispiest crust, air frying offers a nice balance of crispiness and low fat, and baking gives you a healthier but still satisfying result.
9. Serve Immediately for Best Results:
While falafel can be reheated, nothing beats the fresh-out-of-the-pan crispiness. Serve them as soon as they’re cooked for the best texture and flavor.
10. Make a Falafel Platter:
For a stunning presentation, serve your falafel with a spread of sides like hummus, tabbouleh, pickled vegetables, and warm pita bread. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
With these pro tips in mind, you’ll be making falafel like a pro in no time. But before we wrap things up, let’s go over some frequently asked questions to help you avoid any last-minute mishaps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas for falafel?
No, canned chickpeas are too soft and contain too much moisture. You must use dried chickpeas that have been soaked but not cooked.
Q2: How long should I soak the chickpeas?
Soak the chickpeas for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight. If they’re not soft enough, soak them for a few more hours.
Q3: Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before shaping and cooking.
Q4: Can I freeze uncooked falafel?
Absolutely. Shape the falafel and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Cook directly from frozen when ready.
Q5: What should I do if my falafel mixture is too wet?
If your mixture feels too wet, you can add a small amount of flour (regular, chickpea, or gluten-free) or refrigerate it longer to help it firm up.
Q6: How do I reheat falafel?
The best way to reheat falafel is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes.
Q7: Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative. Simply brush the falafel with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q8: Why is my falafel falling apart during frying?
This could be due to overprocessing the mixture, not chilling it before cooking, or using canned chickpeas instead of dried.
Q9: Can I make gluten-free falafel?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding flour or serve it without bread.
Q10: What’s the best way to serve falafel?
Serve hot, with pita bread, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauce like hummus, tahini, or tzatziki.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Congratulations! You’ve just unlocked the secret to making the most amazing falafel right at home. Whether you prefer frying, baking, or air frying, this recipe delivers that perfect combination of crispy outside and soft, flavorful inside. And with all the helpful tips and troubleshooting advice shared here, you’re more than ready to tackle this dish like a pro.
But don’t stop here! Now that you know how to make delicious homemade falafel, it’s time to have some fun with it. Try different serving ideas, explore various pairing options, and even customize the recipe with your favorite spices and herbs.
Making falafel is not just about cooking – it’s about creating something special that you can share with friends, family, or even just yourself on a cozy night in. And the best part? You can always make extra and keep them in the freezer for those days when you’re craving a quick and satisfying meal.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, soak those chickpeas, and get ready to experience a falafel that’s way better than anything you can buy at a restaurant.
I can’t wait to hear how your falafel turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your experience. And if you post your falafel masterpiece on social media, be sure to tag me – I love seeing your delicious creations!
Happy cooking! And enjoy every bite of your perfectly crispy, herb-packed falafel.
PrintThe Best Crispy Falafel at Home: Easy & Flavorful Recipe!
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This easy falafel recipe gives you perfectly crispy falafel balls with a soft, herb-packed interior. Enjoy them in pita bread, salads, or as a delicious snack with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
For the Falafel:
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1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, NOT cooked)
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1 small onion, roughly chopped
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4 cloves garlic
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1 cup fresh parsley (or cilantro, or a mix of both)
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1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
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1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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Oil for frying (or baking/air frying)
For Serving (Optional):
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Pita bread or flatbread
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Chopped veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
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Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or cilantro)
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Tzatziki, hummus, or tahini sauce
Instructions
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Prepare the Chickpeas:
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Soak chickpeas overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and rinse well before using.
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Make the Falafel Mixture:
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In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarse but holds together.
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Transfer to a bowl, add baking powder, and mix well. Cover and chill for 1 hour.
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Shape the Falafel:
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Form the mixture into small balls or patties (about the size of a golf ball).
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Cook the Falafel:
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Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry falafel for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
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Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Air-Frying: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
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Serve & Enjoy:
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Serve hot with pita, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauce.
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Notes
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Ensure chickpeas are soaked but NOT cooked.
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For gluten-free falafel, use gluten-free flour if needed for binding.
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Falafel can be frozen both cooked and uncooked for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern