Falafel

This easy falafel recipe makes crispy, golden chickpea patties that are packed with fresh herbs, warm spices, and plant-based protein—perfect for wraps, bowls, or your next Mediterranean night. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a healthy snack, these falafels will impress everyone with their delightful flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The air frying or deep-frying methods create a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.
• Flavor-Packed: Fresh herbs and spices combine to create a delicious taste that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy falafel in wraps, salads, or as a main dish; they fit seamlessly into various cuisines.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of homemade falafel in no time.
• Nutritious Option: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this falafel recipe efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the process and ensure your falafels turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large bowl
• Parchment paper
• Frying oil (for deep-frying)
• Air fryer or oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool is vital for achieving the right texture by finely chopping the ingredients without turning them into a paste.
• Air fryer: An air fryer allows you to make healthier falafels with less oil while still achieving that desirable crispiness.

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Ingredients

This easy falafel recipe makes crispy, golden chickpea patties that are packed with fresh herbs, warm spices, and plant-based protein—perfect for wraps, bowls, or your next Mediterranean night.

For the Falafel Mixture

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (measured before soaking)
• 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
• ½ cup mint leaves (or cilantro – optional)
• 1 onion (yellow or white)
• 6 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons coriander (ground)
• 1½ teaspoons cumin (ground)
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or red pepper flakes)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for air frying)
• 4 to 6 cups frying oil for deep-frying

How to Make Falafel

Step 1: Soak Chickpeas

1. Place 2 cups dried chickpeas in a large bowl.
2. Cover with water and soak in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours.
3. Drain and rinse before using.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

1. In a food processor, blend together:
2. 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
3. ½ cup mint leaves
4. 1 onion
5. 6 cloves garlic
6. 2 teaspoons coriander
7. 1½ teaspoons cumin
8. 1½ teaspoons salt
9. ¼ teaspoon black pepper

10. ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

11. Add soaked chickpeas and 2 teaspoons baking powder. Blend until the mixture is finely coarse but not smooth.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

1. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes.
2. Scoop and shape it into small patties. If too crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour.
3. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 4: Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spray basket and falafel with olive oil.
3. Air fry in a single layer for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Step 5: Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place falafel on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Brush with olive oil and bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway if desired until golden brown.

Step 6: Deep-Fry Method

1. Heat oil to 340°F (170°C) in a deep pot filled halfway.
2. Fry 3–4 falafel at a time for about 3–4 minutes, turning them occasionally for even browning.
3. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Enjoy your homemade falafel as part of an appetizer spread or as the star of your meal!

How to Serve Falafel

Falafel is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of your crispy chickpea patties.

In a Pita Pocket

• Fill warm pita bread with falafel, fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, and drizzle with tahini sauce for a delicious handheld meal.

As a Salad Topping

• Crumble falafel over a bed of mixed greens, adding your favorite veggies and dressing for a hearty salad option that’s both nutritious and filling.

With Dips

• Serve falafel alongside hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki for a delightful appetizer platter that encourages sharing and dipping.

In a Wrap

• Roll falafel in a large flatbread or tortilla with veggies and sauces for a flavorful wrap that’s perfect for lunch on the go.

On Rice or Quinoa Bowls

• Layer falafel on top of cooked rice or quinoa, adding roasted vegetables and a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing for a wholesome bowl meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve mini falafels with toothpicks at parties as bite-sized treats that guests can enjoy while mingling.

How to Perfect Falafel

To achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful falafel, consider these essential tips.

• Soak Chickpeas Properly: Ensure you soak dried chickpeas for 24 to 48 hours. This softens them and helps create the right texture in your falafel.

• Blend Until Coarse: When using the food processor, blend the mixture until it is finely coarse. A smooth mixture can lead to dense patties instead of light ones.

• Let it Rest: Allow the blended mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form patties without crumbling.

• Don’t Overcrowd When Cooking: Whether air frying or deep-frying, avoid cooking too many at once. This ensures even cooking and crispiness all around.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before cooking. If needed, adjust spices to ensure your falafels are packed with flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Falafel

Pairing side dishes with your falafel can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic, perfect for cooling down spicy flavors.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A vibrant salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice that complements the herbs in falafel.
3. Hummus: This creamy dip made from chickpeas offers great flavor contrast and pairs well with crunchy falafel.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with diced cucumbers dressed in olive oil and lemon provides crunch and freshness.
6. Pita Bread: Warmed pita bread serves as an excellent accompaniment for scooping up hummus or enjoying with falafel.
7. Olives: A small bowl of marinated olives adds briny flavor that contrasts nicely with the earthy taste of falafels.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with spices can be a filling base under your delicious falafel patties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making falafel can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results.

• Using canned chickpeas: Canned chickpeas can make the falafel too wet and mushy. Always use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for the best texture.
• Over-blending the mixture: Blending the ingredients into a smooth paste will result in dense falafel. Aim for a coarse texture for light, fluffy patties.
• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the mixture to rest can lead to crumbly falafel. Letting it sit for 30 minutes helps it bind properly.
• Not preheating your cooking method: Whether air frying or deep-frying, failing to preheat can prevent your falafel from cooking evenly and achieving that perfect crisp.
• Overcrowding the fryer or air fryer: Cooking too many at once can lower the temperature of the oil or air, leading to soggy falafel. Fry in small batches for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Falafel

• Place uncooked or cooked falafel on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Falafel

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes; however, this may soften the texture.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for about 5 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious falafel recipe.

What is Falafel made of?

Falafel is primarily made from soaked and ground chickpeas mixed with herbs and spices, creating flavorful patties or balls.

How do I make my Falafel crispy?

To achieve crispy falafel, ensure you don’t overcrowd your cooking method and preheat your oil or air fryer properly.

Can I use different herbs in my Falafel?

Absolutely! While parsley and mint are traditional, feel free to experiment with coriander or even spinach for unique flavors.

How long does homemade Falafel last?

Homemade falafel will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored correctly.

Is Falafel healthy?

Yes! Made from chickpeas, falafel offers plant-based protein and fiber while being low in calories when baked or air-fried.

Can I make Falafel gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that any flour added is gluten-free. Chickpea flour works well as an alternative if needed.

Final Thoughts

This easy falafel recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Whether served in wraps, salads, or as part of a mezze platter, these crispy chickpea patties are sure to impress. Feel free to customize with your choice of herbs and spices for a personal touch!