Falafel
Crunchy, Herby, and Irresistible Falafel (Crispy Chickpea Patties with Fresh Herbs)
Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure that brings the vibrant essence of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen? Introducing crispy, golden falafel—little nuggets of joy that are bursting with fresh herbs, warm spices, and plant-based protein! Whether you’re wrapping them in a fluffy pita, tossing them on a colorful salad, or indulging in them as a snack, these falafel patties are simply irresistible. Get your taste buds ready for a journey of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Falafel is a culinary superstar, and here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
– Big, Bold Flavors: Each bite is a little flavor explosion, thanks to a symphony of fresh herbs and spices.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, dinner parties, or a cozy night at home, these crispy delights will impress everyone.
– Flexible & Fast: Adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs with ease while whipping them up in no time!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week—snack time just got a major upgrade!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your kitchen arsenal for this scrumptious falafel recipe! We’re diving into a world of vibrant flavors, with key ingredients that really elevate the dish—like the fresh herbs and chickpeas that form the base of this recipe. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
– 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)
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of falafel lies in its adaptability! Here are some fun and creative twists you can try:
– Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour if needed.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: Amp up the heat with additional cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different sauces like tahini, tzatziki, or spicy harissa for a flavor twist.
– Cheese it Up: For a dairy-friendly option, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese into your falafel mix!
How to Make Falafel
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and transform simple ingredients into magnificent falafel! Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll be relishing the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas
Start by placing 2 cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Cover them with water and let them soak in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours. This step is crucial, as it hydrates the chickpeas and preps them for blending. Once soaked, drain and rinse them thoroughly.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, combine 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, ½ cup mint leaves (or cilantro), 1 onion, 6 cloves of garlic, 2 teaspoons of coriander, 1½ teaspoons of cumin, 1½ teaspoons of salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. Then, add the soaked chickpeas and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Blend until the mixture is coarsely textured—think chunky, not smooth!
Step 3: Shape the Falafel
Let your falafel mixture rest for about 30 minutes. It’s time to shape them into small patties! If the mixture feels crumbly, don’t fret—just add 1–2 tablespoons of flour to bind it. Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined tray, ready for cooking.
Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
– Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket and the falafel with a light coat of oil and air fry them in a single layer for about 12–15 minutes, or until they are gloriously golden and crisp.
– Oven-Baked: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the falafel on a parchment-lined tray, brush them with olive oil, and bake for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.
– Deep-Fry: Heat oil in a deep pot to 340°F (170°C), filling it halfway. Fry about 3–4 falafel at a time for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve that perfect golden brown. Drain them on paper towels so they stay crispy!
Pro Tips for Making Falafel
– Soak Longer for Softer Texture: If you want a softer, fluffier falafel, soak the chickpeas for the full 48 hours.
– Don’t Over-Blend: A coarse texture is key—over-blending will turn your mixture into hummus!
– Chill Before Cooking: For firmer patties, chill the formed falafel in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
– Test the Oil Temperature: If deep-frying, use a thermometer to check the oil’s temperature; this ensures your falafel cooks perfectly without burning.
How to Serve Falafel
Garnishes
Sprinkle your crispy falafel with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a pop of color and flavor. A drizzle of tahini sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice will elevate them to new heights!
Side Dishes
Pair your falafel with a refreshing tabbouleh salad, creamy hummus, or a zesty cucumber yogurt dip. Serve with warm pita bread or fluffy couscous for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative! Serve falafel in individual cups with dips for a fun appetizer at parties or arrange them on a platter with various sauces for a vibrant spread. You could even pack them into lunchboxes for a delicious and healthy meal on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover falafel stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for a fabulous quick snack or meal addition!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze falafel! Place uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, cook from frozen—no thawing required!
Reheating
Reheat leftover falafel in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy texture. Alternatively, throw them in the air fryer for just a few minutes!
FAQs
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
You certainly can! Just skip the soaking step and use about 1½ cups of canned chickpeas, draining and rinsing them before blending.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference! Feel free to increase or decrease the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
How do I make this gluten-free?
This falafel recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to use gluten-free flour if you need to bind the mixture.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the falafel mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Shape and cook them when you’re ready to eat!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—irresistibly crispy, herby falafel that’s bound to become a favorite in your household! With its delightful crunch and vibrant flavors, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of these delicious chickpea patties. Happy cooking!
