How to Create Crispy Baked Falafel in Simple English
Falafel is a delicious Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, and flavorful spices. While traditional falafel is deep-fried to achieve its signature crispiness, you can make a healthier baked version that’s just as satisfying. Baked falafel is crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and it’s packed with protein and flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make at home! In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to prepare crispy baked falafel using simple ingredients and techniques.
What Is Falafel?
Falafel is a popular street food made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with onions, garlic, parsley, spices, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into small balls or patties, then traditionally fried until golden brown. It’s often served with pita bread, tahini, hummus, or fresh salads, making it a tasty and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal.
If you’re looking for a healthier, oil-free alternative to deep-fried falafel, baking is the way to go! Baking falafel in the oven helps reduce the fat content while still creating a crispy texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Falafel
To make crispy baked falafel, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- Dried Chickpeas (1 cup): Soaked overnight and drained.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley (½ cup) and cilantro (½ cup).
- Onion: 1 small onion, roughly chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, peeled.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Spices: Cumin (1 teaspoon), coriander (1 teaspoon), paprika (½ teaspoon), salt (1 teaspoon), and black pepper (¼ teaspoon).
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for added moisture.
- Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon for a lighter texture.
- Optional: Sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Falafel
Follow these simple steps to make perfect baked falafel:
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Start by soaking dried chickpeas in water overnight (for at least 12 hours). It’s important to use dried chickpeas instead of canned chickpeas because they hold their shape better in falafel and won’t become mushy. After soaking, drain the chickpeas thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture
In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Blend the ingredients until they form a coarse, grainy mixture. Be careful not to over-process—you don’t want the mixture to become too smooth or sticky.
Once mixed, add the olive oil and baking powder to the falafel dough. Blend briefly until everything is evenly combined. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water, but it should be firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the falafel mixture into a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling will help the flavors come together and make the mixture easier to shape.
Step 4: Shape the Falafel
After chilling, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or patties using your hands. Each falafel should be about the size of a golf ball. If you’d like extra crunch, you can roll the falafel balls in sesame seeds before baking.
Step 5: Bake the Falafel
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the falafel balls on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
Lightly brush the tops of the falafel with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through cooking. They’re ready when the outside is golden brown and crispy, and the inside is tender.
Serving Your Baked Falafel
Once your baked falafel is ready, serve it warm with your favorite accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
- Stuffed Pita: Fill a pita pocket with falafel, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or yogurt.
- Falafel Bowl: Arrange the falafel on a bed of greens or rice with roasted vegetables and hummus.
- Dip and Snack: Serve falafel as an appetizer with a side of garlic dipping sauce or tzatziki.
Baked falafel is versatile, nutritious, and perfect for meal prep!
Helpful Tips for Crispy Falafel
- Use Fresh Herbs and Dried Chickpeas: Fresh parsley and cilantro give falafel their vibrant flavor. Stick to dried chickpeas for the best consistency.
- Don’t Over-Process: Keep the texture slightly coarse—it helps the falafel stay crispy.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the mixture prevents your falafel from falling apart during baking.
- Bake at High Heat: Using a hot oven ensures the falafel becomes golden and crispy on the outside.
Conclusion
Making crispy baked falafel at home is easy, healthy, and delicious. With dried chickpeas, fresh herbs, and simple spices, you can create a flavorful falafel that’s perfect for wraps, salads, or snacks. Baking is a great alternative to frying, giving you all the taste and texture without the extra oil. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought falafel again!
So, grab your chickpeas and get cooking—you’re about to enjoy one of the tastiest dishes around!
