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. These delightful bites are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The air frying or deep-frying method gives you an irresistible crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices create a burst of flavor in every bite, making these falafels a true delight.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Made primarily from chickpeas and herbs, this recipe is rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or spices for a unique twist on traditional falafel.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These falafels can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make your falafel perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl
• Parchment Paper
• Air Fryer or Deep Pot
• Cooking Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Food Processor: This tool blends ingredients quickly and efficiently, ensuring a well-combined mixture for your falafel.
• Air Fryer: It allows you to achieve that desired crispy texture with less oil than traditional frying methods.
• Cooking Thermometer: This ensures your oil is at the right temperature for frying, preventing soggy falafel.

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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, or 4 to 6 cups frying oil for deep-frying)

How to Make Falafel

Step 1: Soak Chickpeas

Soak 2 cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl filled with water. Cover and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours. After soaking, drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

In a food processor:
1. Add 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, ½ cup mint leaves (if using), 1 onion, 6 cloves of garlic, 2 teaspoons coriander, 1½ teaspoons cumin, 1½ teaspoons salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
2. Blend until finely coarse; do not puree it completely.
3. Add the soaked chickpeas and 2 teaspoons baking powder. Blend again until combined.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

Let the mixture rest for about 30 minutes. Then scoop out portions and shape them into small patties. If the mixture feels too crumbly to hold together, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour as needed. Place shaped patties on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 4: Cook Your Falafel

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spray the basket and patties lightly with olive oil.
3. Cook in a single layer for about 12–15 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp.

Oven-Baked Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange falafel on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Bake for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired.

Deep-Fry Method:

1. Heat oil in a deep pot until it reaches around 340°F (170°C).
2. Fry each batch of about 3–4 falafels for approximately 3–4 minutes until they are evenly browned.
3. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Enjoy your homemade falafel as an appetizer or main dish!

How to Serve Falafel

Falafel is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it in a wrap, on a salad, or as part of a mezze platter, there are countless serving options to explore.

In a Wrap

• Use warm pita bread or flatbreads to wrap falafel along with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a delicious meal on-the-go.

On a Salad

• Serve falafel atop a bed of mixed greens with diced vegetables and your favorite dressing for a healthy and filling option.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pair falafel with tahini sauce, hummus, or a spicy yogurt dip for added flavor and texture.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include falafel alongside other Mediterranean dishes like stuffed grape leaves, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh for an impressive appetizer spread.

In Bowls

• Create a nourishing bowl by layering falafel with grains like quinoa or rice, fresh vegetables, and drizzling with tahini or lemon dressing.

As Snack Bites

• Serve small falafel balls as appetizers at parties or gatherings, perfect for dipping in sauces while mingling.

How to Perfect Falafel

To achieve the ultimate falafel texture and flavor, consider these essential tips for success.

• Soak the Chickpeas Properly: Ensure chickpeas are soaked long enough (24 to 48 hours) to soften them adequately before blending.
• Don’t Over-Blend: Aim for a coarse texture when blending the ingredients; over-blending can make the mixture too mushy.
• Rest the Mixture: Allowing the blended mixture to rest for 30 minutes helps firm it up, making it easier to shape into patties.
• Use Baking Powder: This ingredient adds fluffiness to your falafel when cooked, providing that desirable light texture.
• Test Oil Temperature: If deep-frying, ensure the oil reaches 340°F (170°C) for optimal frying; this prevents soggy falafel.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to substitute mint with cilantro or add spices like paprika for extra depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Falafel

Serving falafel is even better when complemented by delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to enhance your meal experience.

1. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice; it’s bright and complements falafel nicely.
2. Hummus: This creamy dip made from blended chickpeas is perfect for spreading on pita or dipping your falafels into.
3. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce mixed with cucumber and garlic adds a delightful contrast to the warm flavors of falafel.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini in olive oil and roast them until tender as a flavorful side.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs make an excellent addition to any Mediterranean spread.
6. Pita Bread: Soft pita bread can be served warm as an accompaniment for wrapping around your falafel or scooping up dips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making falafel can be easy, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch for:

• Using canned chickpeas: Canned chickpeas can lead to a mushy texture. Always soak and use dried chickpeas for the best results.
• Over-blending the mixture: Blending too much can turn your mix into a paste. Aim for a coarse consistency to keep your falafel crispy.
• Skipping the resting time: Resting the mixture helps it firm up and hold its shape. Don’t skip this 30-minute step; it’s crucial for successful shaping.
• Not seasoning enough: Falafel needs proper seasoning for flavor. Taste the mixture before frying, and adjust spices as needed.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil is too hot or too cool, your falafel might burn or not cook properly. Use a thermometer to maintain an even frying temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Falafel

• Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Store for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Falafel

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, but this may make them softer.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making falafel:

What is falafel made of?

Falafel is primarily made from soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices blended into a coarse mixture before being shaped into patties and cooked.

Can I make falafel gluten-free?

Yes! This falafel recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free flour if needed.

How do I know when my falafel is done cooking?

Falafel should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. It typically takes about 3-4 minutes per batch when deep-frying.

Can I customize my falafel recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or spicy peppers for variation.

Is falafel healthy?

Falafel is a great source of plant-based protein and fiber from chickpeas and herbs. When baked or air-fried, it can be a healthier alternative compared to traditional frying.

Final Thoughts

This easy falafel recipe offers delicious, crispy bites that are perfect for wraps, salads, or as a stand-alone snack. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or serve alongside tangy dips. Try this versatile dish today!

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Falafel

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minute
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade falafel with this easy recipe that promises crispy, golden chickpea patties bursting with fresh herbs and warm spices. Perfect for wraps, salads, or as a tasty snack, these falafels are not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups dried chickpeas
• 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
• ½ cup mint leaves (optional)
• 1 onion
• 6 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons coriander
• 1½ teaspoons cumin
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for air frying, or 4 to 6 cups frying oil for deep-frying)

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Instructions

1. Soak dried chickpeas in water for 24 to 48 hours; drain and rinse.
2. In a food processor, blend parsley, mint (if using), onion, garlic, spices, and baking powder until coarse.
3. Add soaked chickpeas and blend until combined.
4. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes; then shape into small patties.
5. Cook using your preferred method: air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or deep-fry at 340°F for 3-4 minutes.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: Varies by method (12–30 minutes)
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 falafel patty (40g)
• Calories: 75
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro for added flavor. Ensure the oil temperature is accurate when frying to avoid soggy falafel. Store uncooked patties in the freezer for up to three months.