Imagine biting into a crispy golden ball of flavor that bursts with spices and the freshness of herbs. That’s what you get with baked falafel—a delightfully light yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The aroma wafting from your oven will have everyone asking what’s cooking before they even see the dish.
I remember the first time I attempted to make baked falafel; my friends were skeptical at first. “Baked? Isn’t falafel supposed to be fried?” they asked with raised eyebrows. But after one bite, they were singing my praises! These little wonders are not just tasty but also versatile enough to fit into salads, wraps, or even on their own as a snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked falafels are incredibly easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
- Their flavor profile is like a party in your mouth—spicy yet refreshing.
- Each bite is visually appealing with its golden crust and vibrant green herbs peeking through.
- They’re perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed in various ways.
I still chuckle when I think about how my friends devoured these baked falafels at our gathering. They couldn’t believe something so healthy could taste so good!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Chickpeas: Opt for low-sodium varieties; they’ll keep your falafels flavorful without being overly salty.
- Fresh Parsley: Choose bright green leaves for a fresh taste; it adds an aromatic touch.
- Fresh Cilantro: This herb brings a zesty kick; if you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it!
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; roasted garlic works too if you prefer milder notes.
- Ground Cumin: This spice provides warmth; don’t skimp on it—it’s essential for authentic flavor!
- Ground Coriander: Adds brightness and depth; together with cumin, it’s like the dream team of spices.
- Baking Powder: A little bit makes your baked falafel fluffy instead of dense.
- Olive Oil: Drizzle some on top before baking for extra crispiness and richness.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other amazing flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to transform those simple ingredients into something spectacular!
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your delicious creations don’t stick.
Prepare Chickpeas and Herbs: Drain and rinse your canned chickpeas thoroughly. In a food processor, combine them with parsley, cilantro, garlic cloves, cumin, coriander, baking powder, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is finely chopped but still slightly chunky.
Scoop Out Mixture: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 12-15 small balls depending on size preference.
Shape Your Falafels!: Gently roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls or patties. Don’t worry if they look imperfect—it adds character!
Bake Them Up!: Drizzle a little olive oil on top of each falafel before placing them in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
Serve & Enjoy!: Let them cool slightly before serving! These baked falafels pair wonderfully with tahini sauce or hummus for dipping—or you can toss them into salads or wraps for an added crunch.
Now you’re armed with everything you need to whip up these delectable baked falafels! Enjoy every moment as you savor their delightful crunch and vibrant flavors. Bon appétit!
You Must Know
- Baked falafel is a healthy twist on traditional fried versions, offering crispy texture without the oil.
- Perfect for meal prep, they freeze well and reheat beautifully.
- Adding herbs can elevate the flavor, making each bite a delight.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create perfect baked falafel, begin by soaking chickpeas overnight and then blend them with spices. Shape the mixture into balls and bake until golden brown for that satisfying crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chickpeas with lentils or add feta cheese for extra creaminess. Experiment with spices like cumin or cayenne to match your taste preferences and kick up the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use dried chickpeas instead of canned for better texture and flavor.
- Avoid over-blending; you want a coarse mix, not a paste.
- Preheat your baking sheet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Making baked falafel was a game-changer for my family; they didn’t even notice I skipped frying. They devoured them, asking for seconds—and thirds!
FAQ
Can I make baked falafel gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a binder in your mixture.
How can I make baked falafel spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat in your mixture.
What should I serve with baked falafel?
Pair them with tahini sauce, fresh veggies, or wrap them in pita bread for a delightful meal.
Baked Falafel
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful bites packed with herbs and spices. Perfect as a snack or meal addition, they offer delicious crunch without the extra oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped but slightly chunky.
- Scoop out the mixture using a tablespoon and shape into balls or patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil before baking for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor variations, try incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne for heat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 falafel (about 30g)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
