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 dinner party or looking for a healthy snack, these falafels are sure to impress. Their delightful crunch and savory flavor make them a standout addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these golden-fried patties that contrast perfectly with their soft interior.
• Flavor-Packed: Bursting with fresh herbs and warm spices, each bite delivers a delicious burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these falafels in wraps, atop salads, or as a snack—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!
• Plant-Based Protein: Made primarily from chickpeas, this recipe is rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making homemade falafel is easier than you think!

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect falafel, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Air fryer or deep pot for frying
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool is crucial for blending the ingredients into the right texture without turning them into a paste.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients comfortably while ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Air fryer or deep pot for frying: Both options offer different methods to achieve that crispy exterior; choose based on your preference for healthiness or tradition.

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

• 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
• 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

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, combine:
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 drained chickpeas and 2 teaspoons baking powder.
12. Blend until finely coarse but not smooth.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

1. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes.
2. Scoop and shape into small patties. If too crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour.
3. Place shaped patties 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 oil.
3. Air fry in a single layer for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Step 5: Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place falafel on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Brush with olive oil and bake for about 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 (fill halfway).
2. Fry 3–4 falafel at a time for approximately 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.
3. Drain on paper towels after frying.

Now you have delicious homemade falafel ready to enjoy! Serve them as an appetizer or main dish with your favorite sauces and sides.

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 endless serving options to delight your taste buds.

In a Wrap

• Use pita bread or flatbreads and fill with falafel, fresh vegetables, and your favorite sauce like tahini or hummus for a delicious meal on the go.

On a Salad

• Top a bed of mixed greens with falafel balls, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing salad.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Serve falafel alongside dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki for an authentic Mediterranean experience full of flavors.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Pair falafel with fluffy rice or quinoa and add roasted vegetables for a wholesome bowl that’s filling and nutritious.

On Skewers

• Thread cooked falafel onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for an eye-catching presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Falafel

Making perfect falafel requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your chickpea patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

• Soak Chickpeas Properly: Ensure you soak dried chickpeas for 24 to 48 hours. This helps them blend smoothly while maintaining structure.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh parsley and mint for vibrant flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness.
• Avoid Over-Blending: Blend the mixture until it’s finely coarse. Over-blending can lead to a mushy texture.
• Rest the Mixture: Letting the falafel mixture rest for about 30 minutes helps flavors meld and improves shaping.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: If frying, keep oil at 340°F (170°C) for even cooking. Too hot can burn the exterior while leaving the inside raw.

Best Side Dishes for Falafel

Pairing sides with falafel can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and mint dressed in lemon juice.
2. Hummus: Creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice—perfect for dipping.
3. Cucumber Salad: A crunchy salad tossed with vinegar and herbs adds brightness alongside falafel.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil enhance flavors while providing nutritious balance.
5. Pita Chips: Crunchy baked pita chips seasoned with spices make an excellent snack alongside falafel.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices and vegetables complements falafel beautifully while adding substance.
7. Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): Smoky eggplant mixed with tahini creates another layer of flavor when served with falafel.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles help cut through the richness of fried falafel, offering a delightful contrast in taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best falafel, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold phrase: Over-soaking chickpeas can lead to mushy falafel. Be sure to soak them only for 24 to 48 hours.
• Bold phrase: Not resting the mixture can cause falafel to fall apart during cooking. Always let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
• Bold phrase: Using too much liquid can make your mixture too wet. Start with less and only add more if necessary.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the spices will result in bland falafel. Don’t forget to include coriander and cumin for flavor.
• Bold phrase: Forgetting to preheat your cooking method can affect texture. Ensure your air fryer or oven is hot before adding the falafel.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store falafel in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Falafel

• Place cooked falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Falafel

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making falafel.

What is falafel made of?

Falafel is primarily made from soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and mint, and a blend of spices that give it flavor.

How do you shape falafel?

After blending your ingredients, let the mixture rest and then scoop it into small patties using your hands or a scoop.

Can I make falafel ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Shape them into patties when you’re ready to cook.

What dips go well with falafel?

Falafel pairs wonderfully with tahini sauce, hummus, or tzatziki, enhancing its flavor profile.

Is falafel gluten-free?

Yes! Traditional falafel is gluten-free as it uses chickpeas and does not contain any wheat products unless flour is added.

Final Thoughts

This easy falafel recipe delivers crispy, flavorful patties that are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Customize your falafel with different herbs or spices based on your personal taste preferences. Try this recipe at home for a delicious Mediterranean experience!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Falafel

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings (patty size may vary) 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This easy falafel recipe features crispy, golden chickpea patties that are bursting with fresh herbs and warm spices. Perfect for wraps, bowls, or as an appetizer, these delightful bites offer a satisfying crunch and savory flavor, making them an excellent choice for any meal. With plant-based protein from chickpeas, this recipe is not only nutritious but also simple to prepare.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked)
• 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
• ½ cup mint leaves (or cilantro)
• 1 onion
• 6 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1½ teaspoons ground 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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Soak the dried chickpeas in water for 24 to 48 hours. Drain and rinse.
2. In a food processor, blend parsley, mint, onion, garlic, spices, and soaked chickpeas until finely coarse.
3. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes before shaping into small patties.
4. For air-frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C), spray with oil, and cook patties for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
5. For baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C), place on a parchment-lined tray, brush with olive oil, and bake for about 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
• Method: Air Frying/Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg