How to Create Crispy Baked Falafel Patties in Simple Steps
If you’re a fan of falafel, you probably know how delicious these crispy little patties can be. Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. While traditional falafel is usually fried, baking falafel can be a healthier option—and it’s just as tasty! In this blog, you’ll learn how to make crispy baked falafel patties at home using simple instructions.
What is Falafel?
Falafel is a vegetarian dish that is often enjoyed in pita bread, salads, or on its own with a dip like hummus or tahini sauce. The main ingredient for falafel is chickpeas, which are blended with fresh herbs, garlic, onion, and spices to create a flavorful mixture. These patties are then cooked until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Baking them instead of frying reduces the oil content, making this meal perfect for anyone looking for a healthier alternative.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you need to make crispy baked falafel patties:
- 1 cup of dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
Avoid canned chickpeas; dried chickpeas give falafel the ideal texture. - 1/2 cup of fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small onion (roughly chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of flour (or chickpea flour, for a gluten-free option)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder (This helps make the patties lighter.)
You’ll also need a food processor to blend the mixture.
Instructions: How to Make Crispy Baked Falafel
Follow these steps to make your own baked falafel patties:
Step 1: Soak Your Chickpeas
The night before you make your falafel, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas in plenty of water. The chickpeas will absorb the water and double in size. Soaking is important because it makes them easier to blend and gives the falafel a firm texture.
Do not cook the chickpeas. Raw soaked chickpeas work best for falafel because they don’t turn mushy.
Step 2: Blend Ingredients
Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor. Next, toss in the parsley, cilantro, chopped onion, garlic cloves, and spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper). Pulse the mixture until it starts to look like coarse sand.
It’s important not to over-process the mixture—you don’t want it to turn into a paste. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add Binding Ingredients
Once the chickpeas and herbs are blended, add olive oil, flour, and baking powder. The flour helps bind the mixture together so the falafel doesn’t fall apart when cooking. Pulse briefly to mix everything together.
After processing, the mixture should hold together when you pinch it between your fingers. If it’s too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and shape them into small discs or balls. You should end up with about 10-12 falafel patties, depending on the size.
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents them from sticking during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Falafel
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray the patties with olive oil. This helps create that crispy exterior that makes falafel so irresistible.
Bake the patties in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and slightly crispy when done.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the falafel patties cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy them in a pita pocket with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce, or as a topping on a salad. They also pair perfectly with hummus or yogurt sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Falafel
- Don’t use canned chickpeas. Using dried chickpeas soaked overnight is the secret to achieving that firm and crispy texture.
- Don’t over-process the mixture. Keeping the texture slightly chunky prevents the patties from being dense.
- Flip the patties halfway through baking. This ensures both sides get equally crispy.
- Use olive oil generously. A light coating of oil helps produce a golden, crunchy exterior without frying.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Baking falafel is a healthier alternative to frying because it uses less oil. It’s also easier—there’s no need to worry about splattering hot oil or standing over the stove. Baking can still deliver that crunch you’re craving, especially if you brush the patties with olive oil before putting them in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Making crispy baked falafel patties at home is simple and rewarding. You get all the great flavors of traditional falafel with a healthier twist. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that works as a snack, appetizer, or full meal. By following these easy steps, you’ll impress yourself with just how delicious homemade falafel can be. So, what are you waiting for? Start soaking those chickpeas and get ready to enjoy crispy baked falafel in no time!
